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The Smokehouse Creek Fire, one of five active fires that have scorched the Texas Panhandle, has burned more than 1,075,000 acres with minimal containment, the largest fire in Texas history, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. It became the largest scale. Multiple grain and seed operations also reported total losses.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) will provide assistance to Texans in need through the Agricultural Relief Fund, essential hay and feed resources, and feeding programs for affected families, according to a recent release. It is said that it is ready to provide.
“These fires will not only threaten life and property, but will also have a major impact on agriculture. More than 85 percent of the state’s cattle population lives on ranches in the Panhandle,” Miller said. . There are millions of cows there, and some towns have more cows than people. The losses could be devastating for these counties. Farmers and ranchers are losing everything. ”
As Gov. Greg Abbott declares a disaster in 60 counties, TDA’s Texas Agricultural Relief Fund (STAR Fund) seeks donations to assist devastated farmers and ranchers in the region. ing.
The STAR Fund is 100% donor-funded and mobilizes funds to support affected agricultural producers. The release states that TDA will reimburse eligible agricultural producers for 50% of eligible expenses. STAR Fund resources cannot be used to compensate for crop or livestock losses, but can be used to rebuild fences, restore operations, and cover other costs associated with agricultural disaster relief and restarting operations.
STAR Fund Eligibility
To qualify, your agricultural business/operation/ranch/farm must reside in a county included in the Texas Governor’s Disaster Declaration. Click this link to determine your county for a wildfire disaster declaration.
“Your donation will go a long way toward rebuilding the Panhandle,” Secretary Miller added. “We stand in solidarity with the farmers and ranchers facing loss and destruction. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time, and we will support their recovery efforts every step of the way.” I am committed to doing so.”
school lunch
Sixteen school districts in the area have also been closed due to the wildfires. The TDA will allow school districts to continue providing meals and services to children under the unplanned school closure exemption flexibility.
“During this difficult time for families, we do not want our students to go hungry,” Chairman Miller said. “TDA will do whatever we can to help.”
If you are in urgent need of hay to feed your livestock, please visit TDA’s Hay Hotline. here.
If you would like to make a donation or learn more about STAR Fund, please visit here. Link.
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