Commissioner Sid Miller Declares Agricultural Emergency in Response to Getaway Pens Fire

Disaster relief resources activated as firefighters continue battling the wildfire east of Lubbock

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today declared an Agricultural Emergency in response to the Getaway Pens Fire in Dickens County, activating Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) disaster relief resources. Commissioner Miller also called on Texans to support the State of Texas Agricultural Relief (STAR) Fund and encouraged agricultural producers and agribusinesses affected by the fire to apply for available financial assistance.

The Agricultural Emergency Declaration authorizes TDA to mobilize disaster recovery resources, coordinate assistance for affected agricultural producers, and expedite outreach efforts to impacted rural communities as recovery begins.

Commissioner Miller praised the firefighters, emergency personnel, and volunteers whose tireless efforts have brought the wildfire to partial containment while warning that dangerous fire conditions remain.

“Our prayers are with the firefighters, emergency personnel, volunteers, and families affected by the Getaway Pens Fire,” Commissioner Miller said. “I want to thank every first responder working around the clock to protect lives, homes, livestock, and property. They represent the very best of Texas.”

Firefighters continue strengthening containment lines to prevent further spread as dry conditions and shifting winds continue to pose a threat.

“Our first responders have made tremendous progress, but we’re not out of danger yet,” Commissioner Miller said. “With drought conditions across much of Texas, it only takes a single spark to ignite another wildfire. I encourage everyone in the area to remain vigilant, follow the guidance of local officials, and do everything possible to prevent additional fires.”

Texans affected by the fire have access to several TDA recovery resources:

State of Texas Agricultural Relief (STAR) Fund

The STAR Fund provides financial assistance to eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses recovering from natural disasters. Administered by TDA, the program awards grants to repair or replace damaged agricultural infrastructure using tax-deductible private donations.

Agricultural producers seeking assistance may apply through the STAR Fund or call 833-380-8282. Texans wishing to support recovery efforts may make secure, tax-deductible donations to the STAR Fund. Every dollar donated helps Texas farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses rebuild after disaster.

Hay and Feed Hotline

The Hay and Feed Hotline is a free service that connects hay donors with agricultural producers in need during emergencies. To donate hay or request assistance, call 877-429-1998.

AgriStress Helpline

The AgriStress Helpline provides free, confidential mental health support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from professionals who understand the unique challenges facing farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. Call or text 833-897-2474 for assistance.

Additional information about the STAR Fund, the Hay and Feed Hotline, and the AgriStress Helpline is available on the Texas Department of Agriculture website.

Texans can monitor active wildfires and find wildfire safety information through the Texas A&M Forest Service Wildfire Status webpage.