AUSTIN, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller has announced a new Agricultural Defense Program aimed at protecting the state’s farmers and ranchers from pests, disease, and predators.
The initiative, created in partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority, will provide financial support for targeted projects led by the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and Texas A&M AgriLife Research.
Officials say the program will fund efforts like monitoring, rapid response, and field-level interventions to address emerging threats before they cause widespread damage.
“Texas agriculture feeds and clothes the world… this program gives us another powerful tool to stay ahead of these threats,” Miller said.
Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis to allow for quick response to new risks.
LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP: AgDefense
Roger McEowen of the Washburn School of Law discusses the lack of legal expertise in rural areas and a new program in Kansas aimed at addressing the issue.
April 17, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Transporting pollinator colonies—primarily honey bee hives—is a major logistical operation in U.S. agriculture. Costs can vary widely depending on distance, fuel prices, labor, and timing.
April 17, 2026 04:50 PM
·
Jake Charleston from Specialty Risk Insurance Agency recapped an Oklahoma auctioneer contest and recent industry events, showing how stakeholder feedback helps insurers gauge market conditions and risk management needs.
April 17, 2026 04:20 PM
·
Kaleigh Backstrom says her early involvement in 4-H helped set her on that path and sparked her interest in veterinary medicine.
April 17, 2026 03:05 PM
·
As data centers expand across Texas, experts and officials weigh economic benefits against concerns over farmland loss, water use, and impacts on agricultural land and rural communities.
April 17, 2026 02:50 PM
·
Groundbreaking Marks Next Major Milestone in Strengthening U.S. New World Screwworm Preparedness
