The USDA and DHS signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen protection of America's food and agriculture systems from emerging threats like New World screwworm by combining advanced detection technologies, real-time information sharing, and coordinated response protocols.
- USDA and DHS signed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) to protect the nation's agricultural systems from threats including New World screwworm (NWS).
- The partnership leverages advanced technologies such as unmanned aircraft systems and artificial intelligence to enhance screening and detection at borders and ports of entry.
- Both agencies will share real-time biosurveillance data and actionable intelligence to enable faster detection and response to agricultural threats.
- The MOU establishes clear protocols, joint training, and capacity building to ensure coordinated response during high-consequence agricultural incidents.
- The agreement expands research collaborations with DHS Centers of Excellence to develop advanced screening and detection technologies for emerging agricultural threats.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that reinforces a whole-of-government commitment to protect the nation’s food, agriculture and veterinary systems from emerging threats like New World screwworm (NWS).
“This new agreement builds upon the National Farm Security Action Plan in partnership with DHS,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. “The MOU further aligns our animal health mission with DHS’s border, security and inspection authorities, so we are better positioned to detect, assess and respond to agricultural threats like New World screwworm. Together, we can move faster and more effectively to better support and protect America’s animals, people, and agricultural resources.”
Key elements of the MOU:
- Unified threat detection: The MOU leverages advanced technologies, including unmanned aircraft systems and artificial intelligence, to enhance screening, detection and interdiction at and between ports of entry and within border enforcement zones. This approach improves the ability to identify and respond to NWS and other high-consequence animal and plant pests and diseases.
- Enhanced coordination and information sharing: USDA and DHS will share actionable biosurveillance and information in real-time, supporting faster and more effective responses — from frontline inspections to information exchange. This ensures both agencies can safeguard livestock, wildlife and companion animals more effectively.
- Strengthened partnership: By formalizing roles and expanding joint capabilities, the MOU improves how USDA and DHS work together during high-consequence events, supporting stronger, more unified national biosecurity. The agreement underscores USDA’s commitment to collaboration, leveraging DHS’s enforcement and security strengths alongside USDA’s deep technical expertise.
- Operational readiness: The MOU establishes clear protocols for coordinated response actions, joint training and capacity building. It outlines responsibilities for both departments, ensuring preparedness for incidents that threaten the nation’s food and agriculture sectors.
- Research and development collaboration: The partnership expands existing research collaborations, including with DHS Centers of Excellence, to develop advanced screening, detection and mitigation technologies for NWS and other emerging threats.
