Washington, Jan 3, 2006 -

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman John Carter (TX-31) today joined colleagues in sending a letter to the President asking that he approve the State of Texas’ emergency declaration request in response to the fires that have caused death and devastation in Texas. Congressman Carter also toured Erath County today in order to assess damage to the area. On Wednesday, Carter is expected to be joined by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local officials to survey the damage in the 31^st District, so recovery efforts might begin.

Following is the text of the letter:

Dear Mr. President:

We are writing in support of Governor Rick Perry’s emergency declaration request for the State of Texas in response to the devastating fires occurring across the state.

The Texas Forest Service (TFS) has responded to 1,946 fires consuming 112,319 acres this year. Since December, wildfires have consumed more than 100,000 acres destroying 241 homes and killing three people. On New Year's Day alone, more than 44,000 acres burned, including more than 70 homes and the entire community of Kokomo in Eastland County. High winds, gusting at times to 50 mph or more, prevented the launch of most air resources and, despite increased numbers, ground forces were unable to respond to all fires. 

This severe wildfire threat is a result of one of the state’s worst droughts since 1996, when 250 fires raged across North Texas. The National Weather Service has predicted a combination of high winds and unseasonably warm temperatures which will likely persist and intensify through early 2006, making it likely that the state will face additional devastating wildfires.

Affected citizens have experienced catastrophic losses and the state and local government resources have been severely challenged as a result of these fires. Therefore, we respectfully request your favorable consideration of this emergency declaration.

Thank you for your attention in this matter. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.

            The letter was signed by the following Texas Congressional Members whose districts have been affected by the fires: Rep. John Carter, Rep. Randy Neugebauer, Rep. Michael Burgess, Rep. Kevin Brady, Rep. Silvestre Reyes, Rep. Ralph Hall, Rep. Ron Paul, and Rep. Michael McCaul.