TDA establishes Texas Wildfire Prevention Task Force

Courtesy Bandera Co. Farm Bureau

After last year's devastating wildfire season, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has pooled industry experts to form the Texas Wildfire Prevention Task Force to protect Texans and their property.
"Last year, Texas landowners watched in horror as wildfires raged across parched pastures and consumed homes, crops and animals. It was truly devastating," said Barbara Mazurek, president of Bandera County Farm Bureau. "We are grateful for the many men and women who fought hard to save as much as possible, and we are equally grateful for TDA's proactive approach heading into the peak season this year."
In 2011, the Texas Forest Service responded to more than 30,000 individual wildfires that burned nearly 4 million acres across Texas. TDA has established the Texas Wildfire Prevention Task Force to anticipate this year's risk and implement programs to improve prevention and response efforts.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples serves as the task force chairman, and several agricultural and rural organizations will be represented, as well. Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) will be represented by Gene Richardson, TFB associate director of Commodity and Regulatory Activities.
"We have full confidence in our local first responders, and this task force will give them the added tools to ensure they are best equipped to protect our community, should the time come," Barbara said.
TDA also offers online wildfire prevention resources at www.texaswildfirerisk.com.