Screwworm Eradication Program Artifacts

Collection

Identifier: MS0348

Staff Only

Content Description

The Screwworm Eradication Program Artifacts contain materials used in various screwworm eradication program areas, including screwworm fly dispersal boxes, a collection tube, a collection cup and holders, and signs.

Dates

Creation: undated

Conditions Governing Access

Contact Special Collections for access.

Organizational History

The Screwworm Eradication Program includes U.S. domestic and international agricultural programs to eliminate the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia americana) from the North American continent. A flesh-eating pest of warm-blooded animals, the screwworm was brought under control using Sterile Insect Technique, which emphasizes biological control methods. The technique used in screwworm eradication involves raising large numbers of sterile flies in production facilities. The sterile flies are then released into the wild fertile population to overwhelm and eliminate it through interbreeding.