Texas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses affected by recent catastrophic flooding have access to disaster recovery assistance through several Texas Department of Agriculture programs after Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller declared an agricultural emergency for dozens of counties, including Bandera County.
The department is encouraging affected producers to apply for disaster assistance through the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund, which provides grants to eligible farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses to repair or replace agricultural infrastructure damaged by natural disasters.
The Texas Department of Agriculture also is making the following resources available:
STAR Fund: Producers can apply for disaster assistance by calling 833-380-8282.
Hay and Feed Hotline: Livestock producers needing hay or feed, or those wishing to donate, can call 877-429-1998.
AgriStress Helpline: Farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers seeking free, confidential, 24-hour mental health support can call or text 833-897-2474.
Miller said the agricultural emergency declaration was issued in response to catastrophic flooding across Central and South Texas that has damaged crops, pastureland, fences, roads, bridges and other agricultural infrastructure while threatening livestock operations.
"Texas agriculture is taking another heavy blow," Miller said in a statement. "Families who make their living on the land are watching their crops, livestock, and homes threatened by rising floodwaters. The Texas Department of Agriculture will always stand with our Texas farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. We'll do everything we can to help them recover."
According to the department, major flooding continues along several river systems, including the Nueces River southeast of Uvalde, where floodwaters have inundated cropland, pastureland and agricultural infrastructure.
"The floodwaters will recede, but for now I'm asking producers to stay safe and follow the guidance of local emergency officials," Miller said. "No crop or piece of equipment is worth risking your life."
The agricultural emergency declaration includes Bandera County along with more than 50 other counties affected by severe weather and flooding. The Texas Department of Agriculture said additional counties may be added as conditions warrant as recovery efforts continue.
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