Climate warming, global trade, and weakened surveillance enable New World screwworm resurgence across the US Southwest
Original framing: “Colorado prepares for screwworms, as the pest that was eradicated in 1966 returns to the US” — Phys.org
Climate projection models indicate a 2‑3 °C rise by 2050 could shift the screwworm’s core habitat 300 km north, threatening additional livestock regions. Scenario planning that couples these models with trade‑flow analyses can prioritize surveillance zones. Early‑warning systems integrating remote sensing and AI can reduce response times from months to weeks.
The resurgence of the New World screwworm reflects a convergence of climate‑driven range expansion, trade‑linked introductions, and weakened surveillance rooted in historical policy erosion.
By re‑engaging the binational sterile‑male strategy, integrating Indigenous land‑care practices, and harnessing AI for early detection, the United States can transform a reactive pest narrative into a proactive, equitable biosecurity framework. Empowering marginalised ranchers through participatory monitoring ensures that local knowledge informs national response, while artistic and spiritual narratives can galvanize public support. Together, these pathways address the ecological, economic, and cultural dimensions of the crisis, turning a warning into a roadmap for resilient stewardship.