Wildfire Preparedness for Texas Ranchers

Texas wildfires can move at speeds exceeding 6 miles per hour in grass and brush, giving ranchers little time to react. The 2024 Smokehouse Creek Fire burned over a million acres and killed thousands of cattle, demonstrating the devastating potential of wildfires on ranch land.

Fire Weather Awareness

High-Risk Conditions

• Red Flag Warnings: Low humidity, high winds, dry vegetation
• Drought conditions: Extended periods without significant rain
• Dead vegetation accumulation
• High temperatures combined with low humidity

Monitoring Fire Danger

• Check daily fire weather forecasts
• Monitor Texas A&M Forest Service fire updates
• Know your local burn ban status
• Have a weather radio for emergency alerts

Creating Defensible Space

Zone 1: 0-30 Feet from Structures

• Remove dead vegetation, dry leaves, and debris
• Keep grass mowed to 4 inches or less
• Prune tree limbs to 10 feet from the ground
• Clear vegetation from under decks and porches
• Remove firewood and propane tanks from this zone

Zone 2: 30-100 Feet from Structures

• Create space between trees and shrubs
• Remove ladder fuels that could carry fire to tree crowns
• Keep grass mowed and green during fire season
• Install gravel or rock breaks as fire stops

Zone 3: 100-200 Feet from Structures

• Thin trees to reduce crown fire potential
• Remove dead wood and debris
• Create fuel breaks along fence lines and roads
• Maintain access roads for fire equipment

Livestock Evacuation Planning

Before Fire Season

• Identify multiple evacuation routes and destinations
• Pre-arrange evacuation locations with neighbors or fairgrounds
• Maintain adequate trailer capacity for your herd
• Keep fuel tanks full during fire season
• Practice loading livestock under non-emergency conditions

Evacuation Priorities

• People first - never risk human life for animals
• Horses and small livestock that can be quickly loaded
• Pets and valuable breeding stock
• Other livestock if time permits

If Evacuation Is Not Possible

• Move livestock to large, previously grazed pastures
• Areas near stock tanks or ponds may offer some protection
• Open gates to allow animals to flee
• Avoid areas with heavy brush or accumulated fuel

During Active Fire

Personal Safety

• Leave early when advised - don't wait for mandatory evacuation
• If trapped, find a previously burned area, plowed field, or water body
• Cover exposed skin and breathe through wet cloth
• Stay low where air is cooler and less smoky

Property Protection

• Close all windows, doors, and vents
• Remove combustibles from around structures
• Connect hoses and fill trash cans with water
• Leave exterior lights on to aid visibility for firefighters
• Do NOT attempt to fight wildfire yourself

Working with Fire Crews

• Follow all instructions from firefighters
• Provide information about property layout, water sources, and hazards
• Inform crews of any people or animals that couldn't evacuate
• Stay clear of firefighting operations

After the Fire

Returning Home

• Only return when officially permitted
• Watch for hot spots, downed power lines, and hazard trees
• Wear leather boots, long pants, and gloves when walking burned areas
• Be aware of unstable structures

Livestock Care

• Check all animals for burns and smoke inhalation
• Provide clean water and quality hay
• Monitor for respiratory problems in the following weeks
• Contact your veterinarian for injured animals
• Document losses thoroughly for insurance and disaster assistance

Property Recovery

• Photograph all damage before cleanup
• Check fencing before allowing livestock to roam
• Test well water before use
• Apply for USDA disaster assistance if eligible
• Consider reseeding burned pastures for erosion control

Building Fire-Resistant Infrastructure

Barn and Building Construction

• Use metal roofing and siding where practical
• Install fire-resistant vents and screens
• Ensure adequate clearance from vegetation
• Consider ember-resistant building materials

Fencing Considerations

• Wire fencing may survive better than wooden fence
• Create fuel breaks along fence lines
• Install gates that allow emergency escape routes
• Consider fire-resistant fence posts in high-risk areas