News and Updates
Invasive Species Alert-New World Screwworm
The threat of New World Screwworm (NWS) has crossed containment barriers in southern Mexico and is advancing toward the U.S. border, putting Arizona and neighboring states on high alert. While NWS has not yet reached the U.S., now is the time to stay informed and prepared.
NWS larvae infest wounds in warm-blooded animals, including cattle, wildlife, pets, and even humans, causing severe damage and economic loss. The USDA has resumed sterile fly production in South Texas and suspended live animal imports from Mexico as of May 11, 2025, to contain the spread.
Livestock Operator Fire & Flood Assistance Program
The Arizona Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the Livestock Operator Fire and Flood Assistance Program (LOFFAP) FY 2026 grant cycle.
This program provides critical funding to landowners and lessees of livestock operations who need help rebuilding infrastructure damaged by wildfires or related flooding.
📅 Applications Due: Friday, September 26, 2025
For more information, contact:
Marty Suter, Program Coordinator – msuter@azda.gov | (602) 396-8365
Ashley Estes, Grant Manager – aestes@azda.gov | (602) 316-6775
USDA Emergency Loans for Drought-Affected Producers
Arizona producers impacted by drought conditions may now qualify for USDA Emergency Loans to support recovery efforts. These loans can help replace equipment or livestock, refinance debt, and more.
📅 Applications due: November 25, 2025
📍 To apply: Contact your local FSA office
🔗 Learn more: www.fsa.usda.gov
Public Lands Council 57th Annual Meeting
Saddle up and join the Public Lands Council for their 2025 Annual Meeting in beautiful Flagstaff! This event will feature a full lineup of speakers, networking opportunities, and updates on public lands policy and grazing issues.
📅 Dates: September 16–18, 2025
📍 Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Flagstaff, AZ
🔗 Details: publiclandscouncil.org
Microhabitat Program Incubator Grant Now Open
Village and Wilderness is now accepting applications for its Incubator Grant—designed to support community-based organizations and agencies, including Soil and Water Conservation Districts, in launching or growing microhabitat programs that restore ecosystem function in fragmented landscapes.
📅 Applications due: November 28, 2025
🔗 Learn more & apply: villageandwilderness.org