Earth Day is Every Day for Hardworking Farmers and Ranchers

As the world celebrates Earth Day today, I’d like to recognize the world’s original environmentalists - our farmers and ranchers. For centuries, the men and women who feed and clothe their fellow citizens have always known the value of protecting their land and animals.

Farmers and ranchers work hard every day to keep the Earth healthy, productive and sustainable. In the end, that means cleaner water, improved wildlife habitat and erosion protection for the rest of us to enjoy along with our abundant, safe and affordable food supply.

I invite you to visit our website, Agriculture is Your Culture, to learn more about how farmers and ranchers protect our environment. On Earth Day and every day, let’s appreciate our farmers and ranchers who were “green” before it was trendy.

TERP Hopes to Encourage Farmers and Ranchers to "Go Green"

Right now, air quality in Texas is a serious issue, and one affecting all Texans. That’s why I’m happy to announce TDA is partnering with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to reduce harmful emissions released into the air by older trucks, tractors and other farming equipment.

The Texas Emissions Reduction Plan, or TERP, offers agricultural producers grants that will fund up to 80 percent of replacing old vehicles or up to 100 percent of replacing an emissions-producing engine. TERP aims to improve air quality in urban and near-urban areas by removing as many sources of pollution as possible.

For more information on deadlines and eligibility, visit www.tdagrants.org, or call 1-800-919-TERP.