Texas Declares Agricultural Emergency After Edouard Flooding

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller declared an Agricultural Emergency September 4 in response to flash flooding along the Gulf Coast and East Texas caused by Tropical Storm Edouard.

The storm weakened into a tropical depression after making landfall Tuesday. The declaration activates Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) relief resources for farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses recovering from flood damage.

As of September 4, more than 10,000 households in East Texas remained without power following heavy winds and rainfall. Some rural areas received nearly two feet of rain in less than 48 hours, and additional storms were forecast for the weekend.

Agricultural producers and other residents were advised to follow evacuation orders and wait for local authorities to confirm that it is safe before returning to assess damage.

“Right now, our first priority is the safety of every Texan in East Texas who is in the path of these dangerous floods,” Commissioner Miller said. “Tropical Storm Edouard has brought heavy rains and dangerous conditions, and I urge everyone to take this seriously, stay off flooded roads, listen to local emergency officials, and look out for your neighbors.”

Disaster Assistance for Producers

Miller encouraged agricultural producers affected by the flooding to apply for available disaster assistance and called on Texans to support the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund.

“The storm may pass, but the work won’t stop when the rain does.” Commissioner Miller said. “The Texas Department of Agriculture will be there alongside our farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and local partners as they begin the long road to recovery. We'll do everything we can to help them recover, and I encourage every Texan who is able to support the STAR Fund so we can get help where it's needed most. Texas is strong, and we take care of our own.”

Several TDA-supported resources are available to Texans affected by the flooding.

STAR Fund: Administered by TDA, the STAR Fund provides grants to eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses to repair or replace agricultural infrastructure damaged by natural disasters. The program is supported by tax-deductible private donations.

Producers can apply for disaster assistance through the STAR Fund or call 833-380-8282.

Hay and Feed Hotline: TDA's free Hay and Feed Hotline connects hay donors and buyers during emergencies, helping livestock producers meet feed needs.

Call 877-429-1998 to offer or request assistance.

AgriStress Helpline: The AgriStress Helpline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support from professionals who understand the challenges facing agricultural communities.

Farmers, ranchers, and others in agricultural communities can call or text 833-897-2474 for support.