local
'Infested zones,' new screwworm cases have border residents on edge
By Sandra Sanchez at KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News
· July 1, 2026
· 1 min read
Ranchers and residents attended an information session Tuesday in Rio Grande City, Texas, to learn about new infestation zones and surveillance zones in STarr County, after a calf was found infected with New World screwworm on Saturday in neighboring Jim Hogg County.
Why this matters in Westlake News
The recent discovery of a calf infected with New World screwworm in Jim Hogg County has significant implications for ranchers and residents in nearby Starr County, where new infestation zones and surveillance zones have been established. This development is particularly concerning for the local livestock industry, as screwworm infestations can have devastating effects on cattle populations and the economy. The information session held in Rio Grande City suggests that officials are taking proactive steps to educate the public and prevent the spread of the infestation. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the effectiveness of these measures and the potential impact on the local agricultural sector. The proximity of West Lake Hills to the larger Austin area, with its own rural outskirts, also raises questions about the potential for screwworm infestations to spread to other parts of the region, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between local authorities and livestock owners.
About this story
Original reporting by KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News . Westlake News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Ranchers and residents attended an information session Tuesday in Rio Grande City, Texas, to learn about new infestation zones and surveillance zones in STarr County, after a calf was found infected with New World screwworm on Saturday in neighboring Jim Hogg County.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News and curated for Westlake News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Sandra Sanchez at KXAN (NBC Austin) - All News. To learn more about how Westlake News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Westlake News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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