Recent Forest fire A series of fires in Texas have drastically reduced the state's vital food supply of hay to sustain its livestock. The fires have reportedly destroyed more than 1.5 million acres of prime cattle land, affecting 85% of the state's cattle.

In response to the deepening crisis, the Alabama Cattlemen's Association, the Alabama Trucking Association and Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate offered assistance and services to cattle farmers across Texas.

“I'm proud of how quickly the ranchers and truckers came together to make this happen,” said Chairman Pate. “Thanks to Erin Beasley and the ranchers, a ton of hay was donated within a matter of hours. All I had to do was call Mark Colson with the Alabama Trucking Association and have him deliver the hay to Texas.”

Carriers transported several loads of hay to Texas, and over the course of several weeks, the Union forces successfully coordinated and shipped 27 hay loads (approximately 546 round bales) directly to the Texas Panhandle.

Mark Colson, president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association, praised Alabama truckers for their efforts in delivering hay.

“In any crisis, truckers answer the call,” Colson said. “Alabama truckers responded immediately, ready to deliver much-needed hay to Texas, demonstrating solidarity with affected communities and industries.”

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Erin Beasley of the Alabama Ranchers Association pointed to the bond shared among ranchers across the country.

“In Alabama, it's well known that ranchers help ranchers,” Beasley said, “The Alabama Ranchers Association is proud to join Commissioner Pate, Commissioner Miller and the Alabama Trucking Association in supporting our Texas rancher friends as they recover from this historic natural disaster.”

Texas officials expressed their gratitude to the Alabamians who took part in the operation.

“The outpouring of support from agricultural leaders in other states during this challenging time has been overwhelming,” said Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. “We want to extend our Texas thanks to other states who have supported us.”

“Their prayers and support have been a source of strength to our community as they suffer the effects of the fires.”

As a sign of appreciation for the industry’s efforts, Chairman Pate and Erin Beasley presented a check for $25,000 to the Alabama Trucking Associations Foundation.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer for Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on X. @ShipleyAusten