(Washington) The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has agreed to permit emergency haying and grazing of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) grasses across Texas. The action by the USDA is in response to the severe pasture and hay losses suffered by livestock producers during the recent devastating wildfires throughout our area and much of the rest of the state.

In the aftermath of the fires, Congressman Mac Thornberry (TX-13) joined with the Texas Farm Service Agency (FSA) and others in urging the USDA waiver. Congressman Thornberry has issued the following statement concerning the USDA's decision:  

"I am pleased that USDA has granted a waiver to allow for the emergency haying and grazing of CRP grasses across the entire state.  Haying will be allowed until May 1 and grazing until June 1, but it will be important for producers to visit their local FSA office in conjunction with the NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) office to discuss the specific requirements. 

"While this cannot totally replace the loss of hay and forage destroyed by the recent wildfires, it will provide a source of livestock feed that did not previously exist.  I am grateful to the Texas FSA Director, John Fuston, his staff, and the Texas FSA State Committee as well as all the members of Congress who recognized this immediate need and supported this request."

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