Press Release • For Immediate Release

Blue Ridge Thermoforming Mobilizes to Support USDA Response to New World Screwworm Outbreak

Greenville, South Carolina — September 26, 2025

Blue Ridge Thermoforming, a leading U.S. manufacturer of custom heavy-gauge thermoformed plastics, today announced its readiness to support federal and state agencies in responding to the recent New World screwworm outbreak.

The company previously contributed to eradication efforts by manufacturing plastic larvae breeding trays used in sterile insect technique (SIT) programs. These containers—produced through heavy-gauge thermoforming with precision perforations—were essential for controlled breeding of sterile flies that help suppress screwworm populations.

“As a legacy manufacturer of screwworm larvae breeding trays, we have begun preparations to support the USDA in controlling the emerging outbreak,” said Chad Stull, President of Blue Ridge Thermoforming. “In past outbreaks, we were proud to provide the plastic breeding containers that were critical to sterile fly production and helped agencies successfully manage the crisis. Today, we are prepared once again to scale production and deliver these specialized trays to protect our nation’s livestock, agriculture, and economy.”

Blue Ridge trays are made of non-toxic material and designed for ease of harvesting. The precision-perforated top tray promotes effective drainage, airflow, and temperature regulation—features that make the system ideal for screwworm larvae breeding in SIT programs.

A National Threat

The New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) poses serious risks to livestock, wildlife, and public health. Outbreaks can cause significant economic losses if not contained quickly. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) emphasizes rapid response and public-private collaboration—an area where Blue Ridge Thermoforming has a proven track record.

Heavy-Gauge Thermoforming Capabilities

Blue Ridge Thermoforming specializes in heavy-gauge thermoforming, producing lightweight yet durable plastic products with customizable designs. Containers with engineered ventilation—like those used in SIT—are a prime example of how the company’s expertise supports outbreak management and biosecurity measures.

Commitment to Action

With established tooling, flexible manufacturing capacity, and decades of experience, Blue Ridge Thermoforming stands ready to collaborate with the USDA, state agricultural departments, and international partners to supply larvae breeding trays used in sterile fly production to combat the screwworm outbreak.

For more information about Blue Ridge Thermoforming’s heavy-gauge thermoforming services, visit our Heavy-Gauge Thermoforming page.

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Learn More

• USDA: New World Screwworm Information
• CDC: Myiasis (Screwworm Infestation)

FAQs About Screwworm Trays & SIT Programs

What are screwworm larvae breeding trays?

Thermoformed plastic containers engineered with perforations for drainage, airflow, and temperature control, enabling efficient rearing and harvesting of sterile flies for SIT programs.

Why heavy-gauge thermoforming for SIT trays?

Heavy-gauge thermoforming delivers durable, reusable trays with consistent geometry and hygiene properties suitable for biosecurity and high-throughput sterile fly production.

Can Blue Ridge Thermoforming scale production quickly?

Yes. With established tooling and flexible capacity, we can rapidly scale to meet emergency demand from USDA and state partners.