Texas Launches Ag Defense Program to Protect Farmers from Pests, Disease and Predators

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller launches Agricultural Defense Program to combat pests, disease, and predators threatening farmers and ranchers statewide.

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

Related Stories
Student Katelyn Lindsay is traveling the country to support growers and connect consumers to the crop.
Nebraska cattle rancher Joe Van Newkirk joins us to discuss wildfire recovery in Nebraska’s Sandhills athe challenges ranchers face restoring basic infrastructure after the fire.
The spending bill keeps animal health and traceability funding in place while trimming several other USDA accounts.
One student is working to help farmers protect livestock and property.
Young anglers learn skills on the water while building a deeper connection to the outdoors.
Just like cows, kids experience ups and downs—from small frustrations to unexpected moments—but there is still good in every day.