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One million acres of forest protected under The Conservation Fund, including in OR; Trump seeks to set aside his New York hush money guilty verdict after Supreme Court immunity ruling; 'Share the Pennies' weatherization program tackles climate solutions, reduces cost; Utah feels the impact of California's ban on gestation crates.

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SCOTUS gives former President Trump a huge win in terms of immunity, which might apply to charges of election interference. A new poll finds future court appointments are crucial for voters, and President Biden continues to face post-debate calls to leave the race.

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Ugly, imperfect produce destined for the landfill is being upcycled by a California candy company, a Texas volunteer uses his Navy training to map the gaps in broadband, and Pennsylvania has a new commission tasked with reversing its shrinking rural population.

TX works to address wildfire survivors' mental health

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Thursday, March 28, 2024   

Residents in the Texas Panhandle are starting to put their lives back together after surviving the largest wildfire in the state's history.

The fires burned for three weeks, destroying homes, barns and livestock. The State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund is accepting donations for survivors.

Sid Miller, Texas agriculture commissioner, said it is not always enough to help with the physical needs of farmers and ranchers. For mental health concerns, there's the AgriStress Helpline.

"These people have lost everything," Miller pointed out. "We've lost over 500 homes and barns up there. A lot of those ranches have been there over 100 years. They've lost their cattle, their fences, their livelihood, so it's a very stressful time."

Miller noted the Helpline is answered 24 hours a day by professionals who've received more than 300 hours of training. It is part of the University of Texas at Tyler Health Science Center. The Helpline number is 833-897-2474.

Miller explained the mental health of people in the ag industry can be affected by geographic isolation, weather conditions and the fluctuating prices of commodities. He added the helpline professionals are trained to deal with issues related specifically to rural communities.

"We answer that phone within 30 seconds, and we'll call you back the next day, and the next day and the next day," Miller emphasized. "As long as you want us to keep checking on you, until you tell us to not check on you, we're going to keep checking on you."

Farmers and ranchers from across the country have taken feed, hay and fencing materials to the Panhandle to help people rebuild. The fires scorched more than 1 million acres and killed three people, and Miller acknowledged it will be at least two years before the full effects are calculated.


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