State agriculture departments call for an integrated, national response to foreign animal diseases of national significance

Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture 2026 Winter Policy Conference, NASDA members amended the organization's policy to support the implementation of a robust national action plan for the detection, surveillance, response and containment of New World screwworm and other animal diseases of significance.

"NASDA is grateful for the steps USDA has already taken to protect the U.S. from a New World screwworm outbreak," NASDA CEO Ted McKinney said. "Going forward, continued swift, collective action across levels of government is necessary for response plans to remain effective and consistent as needs to address the prevention of foreign animal diseases are elevated. NASDA is advocating for the development of a standing national action plan for all animal diseases of significance to specifically include state agriculture departments as partners."

NASDA's amended policy states, "NASDA supports the development and maintenance by USDA, in close coordination with states, of robust, integrated and well-communicated national action plans for the detection, surveillance, response and containment of foreign animal diseases of significance including, but not limited to, highly pathogenic avian influenza, New World screwworm, and African swine fever. Plans could include the development of vaccinations and treatments but must be accompanied by enhanced or improved biosecurity measures and surveillance."

NASDA member Commissioner Greenberg, who led the submission of the policy amendment, shared that the policy would help ranchers in her state as it encourages USDA to continue to act proactively to ensure there are measures in place to safeguard against threats of New World screwworm. The amendment also requests that USDA work on these plans in close cooperation with the states, who are going to be the primary responders against the disease and pest threats. It is critically important for the livelihoods of Colorado producers that state and federal entities work closely and cooperative to ensure the security of the U.S. food supply.

Combating the spread of diseases, protecting animal health and welfare and guarding against the spread of invasive species are key responsibilities of all state departments of agriculture. State departments of agriculture regulate and oversee animal health programs in their states to protect against an animal disease outbreak and secure our food supply. NASDA is committed to working with intergovernmental agencies and industry stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach to animal health initiatives.

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NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors of the departments of agriculture in all 50 states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances American food and agricultural communities through policy, partnerships and public engagement. To learn more about NASDA, please visit https://www.nasda.org.