Hay Transport Waiver Benefits Texas Ranchers, Consumers

In a year marked by some of the worst drought conditions and wildfire devastation in Texas history, our farmers and ranchers need all the help they can get. Recently, I asked Gov. Rick Perry to direct the Texas Department of Transportation to waive certain restrictions for the transport of hay. Last week, Gov. Perry granted the waiver, which expires at midnight, August 4, with the possibility of a forthcoming extension if he renews the state’s disaster proclamation on the day of the deadline.

The waiver — which has been enacted numerous times in the past — makes it possible to facilitate the transport of large bails of hay to ranchers who are desperately trying to feed their herds. Recognizing that we are in a crisis situation, TxDoT has temporarily suspended permitting requirements, legal height restrictions for round hay bales, and associated permit fees for carriers of hay. Obviously, public safety remains a priority, which is why all other legal requirements, including licensing, registration, insurance and safety precautions are closely monitored for compliance. Alternate routing also is considered.

Emergency situations call for action and cooperation, and thankfully, Texas is known for both when the going gets tough. This most recent hay-transport waiver is more than a good idea: It’s critical to the preservation of our food supply.

For more information regarding waiver criteria and expedited routing, please contact the Texas Department of Transportation’s Motor Carrier Division at (512) 465-3592.

Stand Strong for Texas

I recently partnered with the Texas Forest Service to produce a Public Service Announcement on the importance of preventing wildfires. We all must be vigilant in protecting Texas from disastrous wildfires.

Check out the PSA on YouTube.

Thankful for Major Disaster Declaration

Yesterday the President approved a portion of Texas’ request for a major disaster declaration. The President's declaration will ensure 45 counties in Texas will now receive the major disaster assistance we have been calling for since these record wildfires blazed through the Lone Star State, and we are thankful.

This season’s catastrophic wildfires have become among the worst on record, with more than 3.2 million acres scorched in Texas. This declaration was extended to only a portion of Texas’ request. We stand by Governor Perry's efforts to ensure impacted counties receive the major disaster declaration they desperately need and deserve.

Our prayers are with the Texas families who are beginning the long road to recovery and the firefighters who have been battling the infernos.

Drought on the Heels of Wildfires Adds to Texas Losses

While Texas wildfires have made for gloomy headlines this year, they tell only part of the grim story facing our state. With 2.6 million acres impacted by fires since November, we now also are looking at the dire possibility of record-breaking, single-year losses due to drought. According to a Texas AgriLife Extension Service report highlighted in this AP story, agricultural losses in Texas this year already total $1.5 billion. As the story mentions, if dry conditions persist into summer, we could surpass the 2006 record of $4.1 billion in losses. To read the full story, click here.

More Wildfires Predicted for West Texas

A little more than a week after wildfires ravaged West Texas a new word of caution again goes out to our friends in that area who will be under severe wildfire weather conditions beginning at noon on Tuesday. According to the Texas Forest Service, a combination of low humidity, high temperatures and high winds will increase the threat of danger to such a severe degree that wildfires could burn the length of a football field in one minute.

Texas already has faced the perils of wildfire this year as crews have responded to 287 fires burning nearly 195,000 acres. To date, nearly 282 structures have been lost, while 8,200 have been saved. On Feb. 27, more than 850 homes were evacuated in West Texas. The losses have been heavy for those impacted, but the destruction was comparatively minimal thanks to the readiness and response of our state and citizens.

With dangerous conditions ahead, residents should avoid outdoor activities that could generate a spark or open flames, and be ready to evacuate if needed. Residents are also advised to clear combustibles away from their homes.

For updates on the current wildfire situation, click here.