Since its migration from Mexico in the late 19th century, the boll weevil had been the single most destructive cotton pest in the United States, and possibly the most destructive agricultural pest in the United  States. The cost of its crop depredations has been estimated at $300 million per year.
Since its migration from Mexico in the late 19th century, the boll weevil has been a major force in U.S. agriculture, causing widespread destruction and disruption to cotton production. This has resulted in significant economic losses, estimated at $300 million per year.