In response to recent devastating wildfire outbreaks impacting much of the Texas Panhandle and parts of Oklahoma, several Farm Credit System organizations have joined forces to contribute funds to support extensive recovery and relief efforts.

Several wildfires across the region, including the Smokehouse Creek Fire — the largest wildfire ever recorded in Texas — have burned nearly 1.2 million acres north of Amarillo. Two people have lost their lives and many others have been displaced from their homes. While the full scope of damage will take time to assess, losses include livestock, homes and other structures, equipment, fencing, fodder and infrastructure.

To support agricultural producers and communities stricken by the deadly fires, Texas Farm Credit District lending cooperatives, along with Farm Credit Bank of Texas and other System organizations, have pledged a combined $380,000 for fire relief efforts. Contributors include AgTexas Farm Credit Services, AgTrust Farm Credit, Alabama Ag Credit, Capital Farm Credit, Central Texas Farm Credit, Heritage Land Bank, Mississippi Land Bank, Plains Land Bank, Southern AgCredit, Texas Farm Credit, American AgCredit, CoBank, Farm Credit Services of America, Farm Credit Mid-America and Farmer Mac.

In addition, other associations in the Texas District and other Farm Credit districts have generously contributed staff time and sent much needed supplies. 

"During times of crisis, the strength of community and the resilience of our agricultural producers shine brightest, and it is imperative that we stand together to support those affected,” said Mark Miller, Heritage Land Bank chief executive officer. “We are proud to join hands with our fellow Farm Credit System organizations to contribute to wildfire relief efforts. This pledge reflects our unwavering commitment to the well-being of rural communities in Texas and the livelihoods of its producers.”

Pledges will benefit the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Disaster Relief Fund and county-level efforts recommended by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

About Farm Credit Bank of Texas

Farm Credit Bank of Texas is a cooperatively owned wholesale bank that finances agriculture and rural America. It funds 13 rural lending co-ops and two other financing institutions, enabling them to make loans to farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and rural property owners. It also partners with other lenders to finance agricultural production and processing, essential rural infrastructure and more. The bank is part of the Farm Credit System, the nation’s oldest and largest source of rural financing.

 About Heritage Land Bank:

Heritage Land Bank, headquartered in Tyler, Texas, is a respected agricultural lending cooperative operating across 16 Texas counties ranging from Dallas-Fort Worth to Lufkin. Founded in 1917, Heritage Land Bank is a member of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of rural lending cooperatives. The bank provides customized financial solutions tailored to the unique needs of ranchers, farmers, families, and agribusiness professionals, aiming to support their long-term success and prosperity.