Miller announces launch of agricultural defense program to protect Texas producers from pests, disease, and predators

AUSTIN – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the opening of the Agricultural Defense Program (AgDefense), a new initiative administered in partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA) to help protect Texas farmers and ranchers from costly threats posed by agricultural pests, diseases, and depredating animals.

The program is now accepting letters of intent under the authority of Texas Agriculture Code, Chapter 58, to provide targeted financial assistance for programs designed to strengthen Texas’ agricultural defenses and reduce losses for producers across the state.

Texas agriculture generates hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity and supports rural communities from the Panhandle to the Rio Grande Valley. That economic foundation requires constant vigilance and investment in science-based solutions that stop threats before they spread.