Hurricane Harvey
Angus Impact Summary
Hurricane affects more than 150 Association members, 1.2 million cattle.
On Aug. 25, historic Hurricane Harvey made landfall on the coast of southeast Texas and parts of Louisiana. The impact of Hurricane Harvey is projected to last months, if not years, due to the torrential flooding and devastating wind damage to homes and businesses across the region. The Category 4 hurricane was the first of its strength to hit the United States since Hurricane Charley hit Florida’s shores in 2004. More than 2 feet of rain fell to the ground in a 24-hour period, while wind gusts approached 130 mph, according to the Weather Channel. The last Category 5 hurricane to make landfall was Hurricane Andrew, which threw a devastating blow to Florida in 1992. Impacts of both prior hurricanes are no match to Harvey’s estimated $190 billion recovery price tag.
The hurricane’s damage to the vast rural areas of Texas hit home at the American Angus Association. Cattle producers in the area lost livestock, fencing, facilities and their homes in the wake of the flash flooding and high winds.
“All of us at the American Angus Association are praying for their safety and for that of their livestock, as well,” said Allen Moczygemba, Association CEO.
The American Angus Association’s thoughts and prayers are with all of the victims and the more than 150 members in the counties affected by Hurricane Harvey’s catastrophic wake. We commend those who traveled far and wide to offer support of the victims via monetary contribution or volunteering in relief efforts. When tragedy strikes the agricultural industry, there is no denying that farmers and ranchers alike come together to support those in need.
Even though the floodwaters have almost completely receded, families are still distraught, homes have been completely destroyed and cattle are still displaced. The total number of livestock lost is unknown, but an estimated 1.2 million head of cattle across 54 counties, which have been declared disaster areas, have been affected, according to Successful Farming.
Prolonged standing in floodwater can have many negative effects on livestock, like severe skin irritation and weakened hooves, which can leave animals susceptible to infection, Dan Posey, veterinarian and clinical professor at Texas A&M University, said in an interview with Fox News. The lack of food and drinkable water can make cattle susceptible to respiratory disease, as well, he added.
With some areas receiving an average of 50 inches of rain, the unprecedented flooding left cattle unable to graze and ranchers unable to reach their livestock. Boats, helicopters and other forms of transportation were used to haul hay, grain and other pertinent supplies to animals left stranded in the debris. Volunteers from coast to coast worked together to haul in supplies and meals for those aiding in relief efforts.
Cowboys on horseback, volunteers in boats and pilots in helicopters journeyed into the disaster zone to herd cattle to higher ground throughout the days following Harvey. Those willing to put themselves into the floodwaters to save others and livestock should be commended for their valiant efforts. Watching successful relief efforts shined a positive light on a rather dreary situation for many.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by Katy Holdener, digital content manager for the American Angus Association.