Special to the Bulletin Gov. Greg Abbott announced June 13 the launch of a free online training course designed to increase the number of certified New World screwworm inspectors in Texas and help protect the state's livestock industry.

Developed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service through its AgriLife Learn platform, the four-hour course was created in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The program will allow additional qualified individuals to inspect animals and issue documentation required for livestock movement, helping maintain cattle and livestock commerce if New World screwworm cases increase.