Stakeholder Calls

National Exotic and Invasive Pest Species Stakeholder Meeting – January 2026

Posted on Feb 10, 2026Share on

Map showing the distribution of Haemaphysalis longicornis within the US as of December 2025
Figure Caption. Distribution of Haemaphysalis longicornis as of December 2025. Counties identified as established indicate more than 6 specimens or two life stages (red), reported counties have fewer than 6 specimens collected and/or a single life stage (orange). Created by G.McClelland and E.Short, University of Tennessee

How to cite: National Exotic and Invasive Pest Species Stakeholder Meeting. January 26, 2026. University of Tennessee, online.

117 participants / 374 invited (31.3% participation rate)

January 2026 Meeting summary/ Quick recap

The meeting focused on updates and discussions regarding exotic and invasive pest species, particularly New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax ) and the Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis). The University of Tennessee led the call, introducing participants to the new format and emphasizing the importance of sharing accurate information and maintaining confidentiality. Updates on tick surveillance were provided by various states, with New Hampshire reporting its first detection of H. longicornis in June 2025 (nymph from the environment during routine Ixodes scapularis surveillance) along a nature trail in mixed forest habitat in the Bellamy River Wildlife Sanctuary/Management Area in Strafford County. Dr. Phil Kaufman from Texas A&M provided a comprehensive overview of the New World Screwworm situation in Mexico, highlighting current cases, prevention efforts, and the importance of sterile insect technique in eradication efforts. Participants were encouraged to reach out to Kaufman and their respective agencies for further information and collaboration. The conversation ended with a reminder that the group’s website would be live soon, and feedback would be welcome to improve its functionality.