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Texans are Called Upon to Assist Saving Thousands of Livestock Stranded after Hurricane Ike

AUSTIN, Texas - Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples today announced joint efforts with local, state and federal partners as well as statewide agricultural organizations to meet the needs of thousands of agricultural producers impacted by Hurricane Ike.
 
Commissioner Staples is expressing an urgent plea to Texans across the state to assist in any way they can to help farmers and ranchers hit hard by the deadly storm.
 
"Producers in Southeast Texas are in desperate need of our help to save their livestock," Commissioner Staples said. "Storm surges from Hurricane Ike have destroyed fences and made forage and water sources harmful for livestock. We are working with federal and state officials to save the remaining livestock, but also need assistance from fellow Texans to ensure the effects of this catastrophe don't become worse. "
 
State agencies are still trying to assess the financial impact Hurricane Ike has caused Texas agricultural producers; however, at this time, tens of thousands of livestock are without food and are at risk of dying if not fed.
 
For producers needing aid, it is essential they contact their local emergency management officials who are in direct communication with the state emergency disaster management team and will be able to allocate the proper resources.  If your livestock-related needs are not met, you can contact staff at the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242 ext. 296.
 
Commissioner Staples is asking producers who are signed up through the Texas Department of Agriculture's Hay Hotline to sell or donate animal feed, hay or other resources such as feed and water troughs. Producers in need of these resources are encouraged to call the hotline at 1-800-Tell-TDA or visit          www.tda.state.tx.us/hayhotline for more information. 
 
The Texas AgriLife Extension Service is also setting up horse and cattle feed donation and distribution sites. Contact your local extension agent for more information.
 
If you would like to offer financial resources to the animal relief effort, AgriLife Extension Service has set up a foundation at  http://agrilifevents.tamu.edu or call 979-845-2604.
  
All TDA press releases are also available via the Internet at  www.tda.state.tx.us.
 
Basic needs include: 8,000 large round bales, 150,000 20% range cubes in 50 lb bags; 600 metal tube constructed cattle panels for corralling loose cattle (10'-12' in length and 6' in height) and most of all cash donations.  Texas AgriLife Extension will set up a horse and cattle feed donation and distribution site at Whites Memorial Park on Hwy 61 in Anahuac. Other sites may also be set up. 

Urgent Calls Needed Regarding Energy Legislation Take Action!     The House of Representatives has announced they will vote on comprehensive energy legislation today.  The legislation will expand offshore drilling, repeal oil industry tax and royalty incentives, extend renewable energy and energy efficiency tax credits and seek to boost renewable energy use though a renewable electricity standard.   EWA encourages all members to immediately contact your Representatives and urge them to support this legislation.  Although we believe this bill should be strengthened with regard to development of conventional fuels, its passage by the House offers an opportunity to go to conference with the Senate to seek further improvements.  The Senate continues to develop a comprehensive energy bill, which should be debated before the election.    Be sure to briefly describe the impact high fuel, fertilizer and other input costs are having on your operation.  Additionally, convey that agriculture is willing and able to contribute to our national energy security through biofuels and other renewable energy resources, while continuing to provide a safe, abundant and affordable food and fiber supply.    Please contact your Congressman now!  If you don't know the office number, you can contact the Capitol Switchboard at 202-225-3121 to be connected.