Mid-April 2025 TRFS Update

FRESH MID-APRIL LISTINGS THAT YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS...

NEW! Discover the allure of the Hill Country at Lazy Valley Ranch South, where expansive, awe-inspiring views set the stage for an exceptional property. Perfectly positioned near the charming towns of Kerrville, Fredericksburg, and Boerne, this remarkable ranch encompasses rolling hills, lush-productive fields, and elevations ranging from approximately 1,560’± to 1,700’± asl. Its versatile terrain offers endless possibilities, whether you envision bountiful hay production, grazing livestock, or simply enjoying serene countryside living at its finest.

NEW! Perched at the highest elevation in the entire subdivision—Canyon Creek Preserve Lot offers a spectacular setting with breathtaking, long-range views that stretch for miles. This 3.5± acre slice of paradise features a stunning mix of open hilltop space and a shaded, tree-filled valley below. A gentle breeze often graces the summit, providing a cool escape from the Texas heat, while the valley’s towering hardwoods create a peaceful, shaded retreat. Wildlife is abundant, with well-worn deer trails meandering across the land. Located just 12± miles from Helotes, this is a prime opportunity to build your dream home in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

FEATURED! With 675’± of both sides of Bear Creek frontage – Bear Creek Ranch offers stunning views and well-manicured land ready for immediate enjoyment. This perfect-sized ranch includes essential amenities such as a double-wide modular home and an equipment barn. Separating from a larger property, it promises an idyllic retreat with Bear Creek as its standout feature. Owned by the same family since the late 1990s, this ranch offers a serene country feel yet is close to all the amenities of New Braunfels and San Antonio.

CHECK OUT THE LATEST TEXAS DROUGHT CONDITIONS!

We're continuing to closely monitor the Texas drought conditions. Texas has seen recent rainfall which has helped the state avoid serious drought concerns. The state is experiencing an increase to 16.83% in exceptional drought conditions. Extreme drought conditions have increased to 29.99% statewide. Stay informed about current water conditions.

RANCH NEWS ARTICLES!

You can see the latest ranch news articles under “Resources” then go down to the “Ranch Articles” tab. The latest article discusses the Texas Land Trends Report and what that means for Texas. Read more. These articles are also featured in our bi-weekly email newsletter.

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Agricultural Losses in Panhandle Wildfires Top $123 Million

Preliminary Estimates show agricultural losses as the costliest on record

Preliminary estimates show wildfires that burned across the Panhandle earlier this year resulted in $123 million in agricultural losses, making it the costliest on record.

The losses include more than 12,000 cattle deaths, lost grazing values and ranch infrastructure costs, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service economists who compiled the data.

“The fires were devastating to agriculture, and the initial estimates really illustrate that,” said Tracy Tomascik, Texas Farm Bureau associate director of Commodity and Regulatory Activities. “Recovery efforts are underway and off to a great start, but it’s a long path getting back to normal conditions for those impacted.”

The Panhandle wildfires started burning Feb. 26 and continued through March, destroying over 1.2 million acres, making it the largest wildfire in Texas history and one of the largest in the nation.

Agricultural losses


The highest category of losses at $68.7 million was to ranch infrastructure, fences, barns, corrals and well pump motors and windmills, along with stocks of hay and feed.

Cattle losses due to the fires totaled $27 million. The livestock estimates include both cows and estimated losses to the season’s calf crop.

An additional $1 million in miscellaneous costs include disposing of deceased animals and forced marketing losses.

Lost long-term grazing in fire damaged pastures and range and short-term emergency feeding is estimated to cost $26 million.

Repairing and rebuilding fences also will be a considerable cost for farmers and ranchers.

“What we will see is a significant increase in replacement costs for fencing due to the increase in materials cost,” said DeDe Jones, AgriLife Extension risk management specialist in Amarillo. “Fence rebuilding costs are in the range of $3 per foot to $4 per foot depending on the type of fencing and the type of country.”

The preliminary estimates were calculated from February through the middle of March. AgriLife Extension economists noted the loss estimates could climb higher due to ongoing fire threats this spring.

Disaster assistance


Farmers and ranchers with unreimbursed agricultural losses can apply for assistance through Texas Farm Bureau’s Texas Panhandle Wildfire Relief Fund.

Unreimbursed losses include, but are not limited to, livestock, feed, fences and equipment. Unreimbursed additional expenses such as the cost of temporary pastures will also be considered.

Applications must be submitted by May 31.

It is not required that applicants be Farm Bureau members.

Click here for an application. Both a digital and PDF application are available.

Additional resources and information regarding assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other agencies is available on TFB’s Wildfire Relief and Recovery Resources webpage.