Commissioner Miller Visits Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts (9/2/2017)

Today, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller visited with volunteers and evacuees at the Texas A&M AgriLife emergency livestock supply point at the Brazoria County Fairgrounds in Angleton. The facility is currently sheltering over 1,000 head of livestock and is serving as a donation drop-off and supply point for hurricane relief efforts related to agriculture. The Salvation Army is also meeting the emergency needs of a number of evacuees sheltering at the location.

“Seeing this kind of effort is inspiring,” Commissioner Miller said. “They’re taking care of all aspects of agriculture from people to animals, hay and feed. This is the spirit of Texas in action.”

It is estimated that over 1 million cattle were being raised in this region prior to Hurricane Harvey. As waters recede and cleanup begins, massive livestock losses are expected to be discovered.

“There were so many wonderful stories on the news and across social media this week where people from across the state came down to pitch in and rescue as many of these people and animals as possible,” Commissioner Miller said. “I’ve never been more proud to call myself a Texan than right now. Texas grit and determination are alive and well.”

Commissioner Miller also brought the offer of assistance for those farmers and ranchers affected by the disaster with the State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund (STAR Fund) managed by the Texas Department of Agriculture.

“This is how Texans respond to a challenge,” Commissioner Miller said. “We draw together and help our neighbors. Plain and simple. This right here is what Texas is all about.”

“The STAR Fund is the only state-managed fund of private donations just for Texas ag producers,” Commissioner Miller said. “There are so many good ways to help those affected by this terrible disaster, but this one is just for our ag family.  And it’s one of the only donation funds where 100 percent of every donation goes to helping those in need.”

If you would like to make a donation or seek assistance from the STAR Fund, visit the Texas Department of Agriculture website at www.texasagriculture.gov.