Wildfire Impacts on Livestock
UDAF Commissioner Kelly Pehrson stated that while wildfires can alter a ranching operation in hours, the recovery process often spans years. According to Pehrson, producers are currently facing the loss of animals, grazing land, and essential resources needed to sustain operations.
Economic Challenges for Producers
Recent fires have resulted in confirmed livestock deaths, with additional animals still reported as missing or unaccounted for, according to the department. The agency noted that replacing livestock requires significant time and financial investment, particularly because cattle take approximately three years to become productive and replacement prices are at record highs.
Available Financial Assistance
The loss of grazing land has forced producers to rely on replacement feed, which is currently in short supply and expensive due to historic drought conditions. To address these needs, the UDAF Emergency Disaster Relief low-interest loan program remains open through November 2026 for drought-related losses and may assist with wildfire-related losses in counties with emergency declarations.
Emergency Loan Details
Under a disaster declaration issued by Governor Cox on June 25, 2026, for recent wildfires, eligible producers can apply for emergency loans. These unsecured seven-year loans offer 0% interest for the first two years and 2.75% thereafter, with a maximum loan amount of $100,000 per entity.
Long-term Grazing Improvements
The Grazing Improvement Program (GIP), established in 2006 via the Rangeland Improvement Act, provides additional cost-share grants for projects improving rangeland management. Eligible projects include water developments, fencing, and vegetation treatments, with maximum requests of up to $200,000.
Application Process
Producers seeking disaster loans must have applications approved by their local Conservation District. The UDAF also noted that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency offers various disaster assistance programs to help eligible producers recover from losses related to livestock, grazing, and infrastructure.
