In the wake of the devastating wildfires that have swept across Texas, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape and our hearts, I felt compelled to share not just the scale of destruction but the unparalleled spirit of our community and the roadmap for our journey ahead.
The Dawn of Discovery
The other day I got up before sunrise and took off across my homeland to witness the aftermath of the wildfires firsthand, notably the Windy Deuce Fire and others that have reshaped our terrain and tested our resolve. This exploration, spanning over 300 miles, was a revelation of the immediate and long-term needs of our land and people. From the historic lands by Lake Meredith, a reservoir in the Canadian River system, to the battles of the Comanches at Adobe Walls, the fires have ravaged landmarks of our heritage and the very heart of Texas cattle country.
As I navigated from Canyon to Fritch (the beginning borderline of the Windy Deuce Fire) and onward north to the small town of Stinnet and beyond, the perimeter of destruction unfolded – small towns evacuated or protected, ranches lost to the blaze, and the resilience of those that were spared. As I told Ruffshot, “I saw perimeter damage, all the small towns that were evacuated or that were protected,” reflecting on the dichotomy of loss and survival, the immediate response, and the indomitable will to recover.
Immediate Needs and Foundation Initiatives
In the immediate aftermath, the paramount need is clear – coordination. With over 1.1 million acres of grassland burned and an estimated 40,000 cattle lost, the urgency to provide inputs to the surviving cattle is dire. “They need to eat. That is number one,” to restore their health and ensure their survival. Our first major push is to facilitate donations of feed, hay, medical supplies, and more through the I Am Texas Slim Foundation, ensuring these critical resources reach where they are most needed.
A Testament to Community Spirit
This tragedy has brought to light the extraordinary response from the Texas Panhandle and beyond. The collective effort and unity displayed by the community, with individuals and groups from across the tri-state area coming together, exemplifies a remarkable spirit of cooperation and resilience in overcoming the challenges presented. The hazardous efforts to combat the fires, especially at night, on challenging terrain, exemplify the courage and dedication of our people. The logistical feats achieved to save properties and livestock underscore a commitment that deserves to be highlighted and celebrated.
The Path Forward
As we stand amidst the ashes, the I Am Texas Slim Foundation is committed to not just recovery but to strengthening our defenses against future calamities. We will facilitate, and we will not walk away. This marks the beginning of a multi-year approach to rebuild, recover, and revitalize. This disaster, while a harsh test of our resilience, offers an opportunity to pivot towards a more robust and secure future for the American cattle industry.
Join Us in Rebuilding
As we mobilize resources and strategies to overcome this challenge, your support becomes the cornerstone of our recovery efforts. Visit the I Am Texas Slim Foundation to contribute to this cause. Together, we will turn this disaster into a defining moment of resilience, unity, and hope. Let’s protect our heritage and write a new script for the future, setting the record straight and showcasing the true spirit of Texas resilience.
Yours in unity and resolve,
Texas Slim
For a full list of the community’s needs please see:
http://texasfirerelief.com
Below is a collection of photos and videos from my reconnaissance.
