Texas, January 29, 2026
Winter Storm Fern has inflicted severe damage to agricultural infrastructure in Texas, leading to barn collapses, fencing failures, and feed losses. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has mobilized relief efforts to support affected farmers and ranchers, including the initiation of key assistance programs such as the AgriStress Helpline, Hay and Feed Hotline, and STAR Fund. Governor Abbott’s disaster declaration includes 219 counties, facilitating state response to the crisis. With thousands left without power, the community is urged to support local agriculture during this challenging time.
Winter Storm Fern Causes Major Agricultural Damage; TDA Mobilizes Relief Efforts
Austin, Texas – Winter Storm Fern has caused significant agricultural damage across Texas, including barn collapses, fencing failures, feed losses, and other critical infrastructure impacts. In response, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has activated relief efforts to assist affected producers, ranchers, and agribusinesses.
Relief Programs Activated
The TDA has initiated several key programs to support recovery efforts:
- AgriStress Helpline: Provides 24/7 confidential mental health support for those in rural areas.
- Hay and Feed Hotline: Connects ranchers with hay and feed providers, including those offering donations during emergencies.
- State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund: A fund supported entirely by private donations, offering financial assistance for rebuilding and recovery to eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses in counties included in the Governor’s disaster declaration.
Governor’s Disaster Declaration
Governor Greg Abbott has expanded the Winter Storm Fern disaster declaration to include 219 counties, mobilizing state responders to assist affected areas.
Additional Resources
Farmers and ranchers impacted by Winter Storm Fern can access various forms of assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including:
- Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP): Provides financial assistance to protect against disasters resulting in lower yields, crop losses, or prevent crop planting.
- Livestock Indemnity Program: Offers benefits to livestock owners for livestock deaths exceeding normal mortality caused by eligible losses.
- Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program: Covers losses due to eligible adverse weather or conditions, including compensation for feed and grazing losses.
Producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for more information on these programs.
Impact on East Texas
Thousands of East Texans remain without power days after the storm, with some areas potentially without power until Sunday. Utility workers are working to restore power, navigating icy roads in dense forests.
Conclusion
Winter Storm Fern has had a profound impact on Texas agriculture, leading to significant infrastructure damage and power outages. The TDA’s relief efforts, along with state and federal assistance programs, aim to support recovery and help producers rebuild. It is a time for the community to come together and support local farmers and ranchers in their recovery efforts, ensuring that the heartbeat of Texas agriculture remains strong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Winter Storm Fern?
Winter Storm Fern is a severe winter storm that impacted Texas, causing significant agricultural damage, including barn collapses, fencing failures, feed losses, and other critical infrastructure impacts.
What relief efforts has the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) initiated?
The TDA has activated several key programs to support recovery efforts, including the AgriStress Helpline, Hay and Feed Hotline, and the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund.
How can farmers and ranchers access assistance through the USDA?
Farmers and ranchers impacted by Winter Storm Fern can access various forms of assistance through the USDA, including the Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP), Livestock Indemnity Program, and Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program.
What is the current power outage situation in East Texas?
Thousands of East Texans remain without power days after the storm, with some areas potentially without power until Sunday. Utility workers are working to restore power, navigating icy roads in dense forests.
Key Features of Winter Storm Fern and Relief Efforts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Impact | Significant agricultural damage across Texas, including barn collapses, fencing failures, feed losses, and other critical infrastructure impacts. |
| TDA Relief Programs | Activation of AgriStress Helpline, Hay and Feed Hotline, and the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund to support recovery efforts. |
| Governor’s Declaration | Expansion of the Winter Storm Fern disaster declaration to include 219 counties, mobilizing state responders to assist affected areas. |
| USDA Assistance | Availability of programs such as NAP, Livestock Indemnity Program, and Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program for impacted farmers and ranchers. |
| Power Outages | Thousands of East Texans without power days after the storm, with some areas potentially without power until Sunday; utility workers are working to restore power. |
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