Local, State, and Federal Resources Work to Fight Hidden Pines Fire

Bastrop County is again dealing with a devastating fire that has already destroyed at least 48 structures and caused the evacuation of hundreds of homes. The fire has burned thousands of acres and firefighters are working to get it under control. At this time there have been no injuries involved which is a real testament to the men and women battling the fire.

Click the photo for a link to a video I took of the situation on the ground.

On Saturday, I viewed some of the damage, and met with Judge Paul Pape, Bastrop County Commissioner Clara Beckett, and other officials to discuss the firefighting and recovery efforts of the Hidden Pines fire. Fortunately, the weather is cooperating so far. Last week, Governor Greg Abbott declared a State of Disaster in Bastrop County, making it possible to bring in further resources to fight the fire. FEMA has already approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant, making Texas eligible to receive up to 75 percent reimbursement for costs associated with fighting the fire. Senator John Cornyn and I are working to make sure residents and the country get the assistance they need. I will continue to pray for those who have lost their homes and those willing to put themselves in harms way to put out the fire. I want to thank emergency personnel for evacuating everyone in a timely manner and keeping the community safe. I will continue to work with local and state officials to help in anyway possible.