Texas Unveils AgDefense to Protect Farmers from Deadly Pests and Diseases

The Texas Department of Agriculture has recently unveiled a new tool used to protect farmers and ranchers from crop/livestock threats posed by pests and diseases. It's called the Agricultural Defense Program (AgDefense), and the department is excited to see the good it can do across the state.

Commissioner Miller Approved!

In a message from Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, he reveals that the program is currently accepting requests from agencies for financial assistance towards projects combating losses for producers throughout Texas.

Stopping threats before they occur is top-of-mind for AgDefense. After all, "Texas agriculture generates hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity and supports rural communities from the Panhandle to the Rio Grande Valley," according to the Department of Ag.

What Threats Are Farmers Actually Facing?

Through partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA), AgDefense will work on implementing targeted control and mitigation projects. This flexible and highly-responsive program is meant to evolve with the challenges posed to Texas farmers and ranchers surrounding their crops and livestock.

Commissioner Miller outlined what threats Texas producers face each year:

Whether it's invasive insects threatening our crops, diseases putting our livestock at risk, or predators causing damage to farms and ranches, these threats cost Texas producers millions of dollars every year.

Where Are the Funds Going?

The three entities that will be receiving financial assistance are the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and Texas A&M AgriLife Research.

Eligible agencies are encouraged to apply for project assistance as a massive group effort is worked towards in order to keep Texas pest-free and our producers thriving.