Texas Department of Ag to give farmers $280 million for water shortages

A scenic view of the Rio Grande River in Big Bend National Park, in Texas_Photo by jdwfoto via AdobeStock_714805397.png

A scenic view of the Rio Grande River in Big Bend National Park, Texas.

Photo by jdwfoto via Adobe Stock

Relief is on the way to Texas farmers and ranchers dealing with water shortages.

The Texas Department of Agriculture and USDA have teamed up, offering $280 million in grant assistance for farmers with water rights along the Rio Grande River.

It comes after years of delays with Mexico’s failure to deliver under the 1944 Water Treaty. Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller says farmers there have endured long enough.

The grant application is open now through May 22nd.

Click here to apply

Related Stories
As spring migration ramps up, USDA officials warn farmers about rising bird flu risks and urge stronger biosecurity measures. Resources are available through APHIS to help protect livestock.
Crush demand is supporting soybeans despite biofuel uncertainty.
New guidance supports transparency, consumer trust, and American ranchers
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how conflict in the Middle East is affecting spring planting as farmers navigate the evolving situation.
NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses the evolving role of ethanol in the current energy crisis, opportunities for expanding corn discusses the evolving role of ethanol in the current marketdemand, and the industry’s outlook moving forward.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins surveys Nebraska wildfire damage as cattle losses, tight supplies, rising imports, and beef industry investigations impact U.S. markets. Roger McEowen outlines legal and tax considerations for ranchers recovering from wildfire damage.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The USDA says the framework is about “ending abusive government overreach” and “protecting farmers, families, and private property.”
Farm numbers still favor small operations, but production, resilience, and risk management are increasingly concentrated among fewer, larger farms.
Wed, 2/18/26 – 7:30 PM ET
While access to China remains uncertain, U.S. beef exporters are finding resilience and opportunity in other global markets, which could help maintain industry value and expand export opportunities.
American Farmland Trust shares guidance, research, and policy solutions to help farmers navigate the growing threat of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” contaminating U.S. farmland.