By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced plans to reopen the Santa Teresa, New Mexico, port of entry for cattle imports from Mexico on September,24,2026. The move is part of a phased strategy to restore livestock trade while preventing the spread of New World screwworm.
The reopening follows the successful resumption of cattle imports through the Douglas, Arizona, port, which reopened in August. USDA officials said the phased approach is designed to ensure livestock entering the United States meets strict animal health and safety requirements.
Santa Teresa is the busiest livestock inspection port along the U.S.-Mexico border, handling about 43% of Mexican cattle imports over the past five years. Its reopening is expected to significantly expand cattle import capacity and support cross-border livestock trade.
Before entering the United States, cattle will be inspected in Chihuahua, Mexico, and undergo additional USDA inspections at the port of entry. The process includes animal health treatments, traceability measures, and follow-up inspections to help prevent livestock diseases.
USDA officials said the reopening remains contingent on the successful operation of these biosecurity protocols. The safeguards are intended to protect the U.S. cattle industry while allowing the safe movement of livestock across the border.
The Santa Teresa reopening is part of a broader effort to restore operations at livestock ports along the U.S.-Mexico border. If current operations continue successfully, the Columbus, New Mexico, port could be the next facility to reopen.
Results from the first phase of the plan have been encouraging. Since reopening, the Douglas port has processed approximately 5,000 head of livestock, with about 1,000 cattle crossing daily.
The announcement highlights USDA's focus on balancing agricultural trade with animal disease prevention. Officials will continue monitoring inspection procedures and port operations as additional livestock crossings are considered for reopening.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Kansas, Government & Policy, Livestock