Edinburg, TX (KRGV) — The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley received a $2.2 million award from the  U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop and test drone technology in the fight against the New World Screwworm.

Local researchers will use the drones to predict where and how screwworm can survive. The team also plans to check animals for infection.

“I think it's very, very significant and very relevant for this region where many people in this area rely on livestock production as a source of income. And potentially can be heavily infected and affected by these infestations,” Integrated Biological and Chemical Sciences Assistant Professor Sarah Maestas said.

The project will last two years and researchers expect to start surveys by next spring.

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz joined USDA’s Farm Service Agency Texas State Executive Director Dan Hunter and university leaders at UTRGV’s Edinburg Campus for a check presentation celebrating the award through USDA’s New World Screwworm Grand Challenge.

"I am thrilled to help secure $2.2 million for UTRGV through the USDA New World Screwworm Grand Challenge Award, building on over $50 million brought home to Hidalgo County. Left unchecked, the New World Screwworm poses a devastating threat to Texas livestock that could cost the industry billions. I am proud of the funding we have delivered, and I will continue to fight for Texas farmers and ranchers," De La Cruz said.

Maestas said traditional screwworm surveillance relies on examining animal wounds for larvae and using traps to detect adult flies. Those methods can be especially challenging when monitoring wildlife.

The project will explore ways to monitor livestock and wildlife across larger areas. Researchers will test thermal imaging and machine learning to identify potential infestations, as well as animals with wounds that may require preventive treatment.

The team also will evaluate drones for releasing sterile flies and delivering animal treatments.

Another focus is understanding how common South Texas vegetation shapes screwworm habitat, including whether compounds released by certain plants attract the flies.

Using high-resolution drone imagery and other environmental data, researchers will develop habitat models to identify areas likely to support adult screwworm flies. The findings could help agencies target trapping, monitoring and sterile fly releases more effectively.