Commissioner Sid Miller Declares Agricultural Emergency in Response to Tropical Storm Edouard

AUSTIN – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today declared an Agricultural Emergency in response to flash floods along the Gulf Coast and East Texas caused by Tropical Storm Edouard, which weakened into a tropical depression after making landfall on Tuesday. The declaration activates Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) relief resources to help farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses recover from widespread flood damage.

As of Friday morning, September 4, more than 10,000 households in East Texas are still without power after heavy winds and rainfall battered the region. Some rural areas received nearly two feet of rain in less than 48 hours. Additional storms are forecast for the area this weekend. Residents should follow evacuation orders and should not return to assess agricultural damage until local authorities say it is safe.

“Right now, our first priority is the safety of every Texan in East Texas who is in the path of these dangerous floods,” Commissioner Miller said. “Tropical Storm Edouard has brought heavy rains and dangerous conditions, and I urge everyone to take this seriously, stay off flooded roads, listen to local emergency officials, and look out for your neighbors.”

Commissioner Miller also called on Texans to support the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund and encouraged agricultural producers affected by the flooding to apply for available disaster assistance.

 

“The storm may pass, but the work won’t stop when the rain does.” Commissioner Miller said. “The Texas Department of Agriculture will be there alongside our farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and local partners as they begin the long road to recovery. We'll do everything we can to help them recover, and I encourage every Texan who is able to support the STAR Fund so we can get help where it's needed most. Texas is strong, and we take care of our own.”

 

Texans affected by the flooding have access to several TDA-supported recovery resources:

STAR Fund

Administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture, the STAR Fund provides grants to eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses to repair or replace agricultural infrastructure damaged by natural disasters. The program relies on tax-deductible private donations to help agricultural producers recover and rebuild after disasters.

To apply for disaster assistance, visit the STAR Fund website or call 833-380-8282.

Anyone can donate securely through the TDA website, and every dollar helps Texas producers recover and rebuild.

 

Hay and Feed Hotline

TDA's Hay and Feed Hotline is a free service connecting hay donors and buyers during emergencies to help livestock producers meet critical feed needs.

Call 877-429-1998 to offer or request assistance.

 

AgriStress Helpline

Farming and ranching are demanding even in the best of times. When disasters strike, the stress can be overwhelming. The AgriStress Helpline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support from professionals who understand the unique challenges facing agricultural communities.

Call or text 833-897-2474 for support.

Additional information about TDA's Hay and Feed Hotline and AgriStress Helpline is available through the Texas Department of Agriculture website.

 

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