Farmers and ag experts gathered in El Campo last week to warn lawmakers that two invasive pests—the screwworm and rice delphacid—could devastate Texas livestock and rice fields. Screwworms, deadly to animals and humans, have resurfaced just 70 miles south of the border, while delphacids are already damaging rice crops across the Gulf Coast. Lawmakers, including Wharton County’s Rep. Stan Kitzman, called for urgent action and funding. Local farmers say without swift federal help, Texas could lose part of its $2 billion rice and cattle industries within months.