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Invasive pasture pest spreads across Texas, threatening cattle industry and ranchers
By Brittany Taylor at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC)
· July 9, 2026
· 2 min read
A fast-spreading invasive insect is raising new concerns for Texas ranchers as experts warn it could threaten millions of acres of pastureland that support the state’s cattle industry.The pasture mealybug, first confirmed in Texas in 2025, has now been found in 70 counties and continues spreading...
Key takeaway The pasture mealybug, first confirmed in Texas in 2025, has now been found in 70 counties and continues spreading rapidly, according to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Why this matters in The Piney Point
The rapid spread of the pasture mealybug across Texas has significant implications for Harris County, where Piney Point Village is located. As the invasive insect threatens the state's cattle industry, local ranchers and farmers may face substantial losses. With Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service confirming the mealybug's presence in 70 counties, it is likely only a matter of time before the insect is found in Harris County. The potential economic impact is substantial, with estimated annual losses ranging from $100 million to over $1 billion. For Piney Point Village, this could mean reduced pastureland, lower hay production, and increased costs for supplemental feed, ultimately affecting the local agricultural economy. As researchers explore control options and emergency treatment approvals, local farmers and ranchers must remain vigilant, inspecting pastures regularly and taking precautions to prevent the spread of the mealybug.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . The Piney Point surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: library ·
Published: July 9, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A fast-spreading invasive insect is raising new concerns for Texas ranchers as experts warn it could threaten millions of acres of pastureland that support the state’s cattle industry.The pasture mealybug, first confirmed in Texas in 2025, has now been found in 70 counties and continues spreading...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 9, 2026 by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for The Piney Point readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Brittany Taylor at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how The Piney Point selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more library coverage from The Piney Point, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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