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
At the Port of Brownsville, shrimpers are facing rising operating costs and increased competition, but many shrimp producers and local lawmakers remain optimistic about the industry’s future.
March 19, 2026 01:22 PM
·
APHIS Veterinary Medical Officer Dr. Chelsey Shiveley discusses USDA’s biosecurity resources available to poultry producers ahead of spring migration, increasing the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) threatens commercial flocks.
March 18, 2026 02:08 PM
·
This year at CattleCon 2026, RFD Network’s Kirbe Schnoor caught up with Donna Emick from Pneu-Dart to get her perspective on why education, safety, and accountability matter in the field.
March 18, 2026 01:22 PM
·
Nebraska’s largest wildfire on-record has burned 650,000 acres, with three other major fires also burning across the state, destroying pastureland and threatening cattle.
March 18, 2026 12:53 PM
·
NCBA President Colin Woodall states that misinformation like this is damaging to cattle producers, the beef supply chain, and consumer confidence
March 18, 2026 12:09 PM
·
Held each year in Mercedes, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show remains a cornerstone event for the region — blending education, competition, and community, even during challenging times for agriculture.
March 17, 2026 12:13 PM
·
