Matagorda County ranchers and landowners are being urged to stay alert after state officials confirmed a new invasive insect has reached local pastures. The pasture mealybug, never before found in North America, is already damaging grazing land in South Texas, with nearby Victoria County reporting the worst impacts so far. Agriculture leaders warn the pest can weaken grasses, reduce hay yields, and cut livestock capacity if it spreads. Early detection and careful pasture management are critical as researchers work to limit long-term damage to local agriculture.