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Screwworm Fly Detected; Drought-Trimmed Herd Drives Beef Prices 32% Higher

6/7/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Officials have confirmed the New World screwworm fly is present in the United States.
The fly adds pressure to a cattle sector already strained by drought.
Drought has forced early cattle sales, leaving the national herd at its smallest level in 75 years.
Ground beef prices have risen to $6.90 per pound—a 32% increase from two years ago—and are projected by the USDA to rise a further 12.1% in 2026.

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Story summary

Officials have confirmed the New World screwworm fly is present in the United States.
The fly adds pressure to a cattle sector already strained by drought.
Drought has forced early cattle sales, leaving the national herd at its smallest level in 75 years.
Ground beef prices have risen to $6.90 per pound—a 32% increase from two years ago—and are projected by the USDA to rise a further 12.1% in 2026.