Nothing disrupts a peaceful getaway like a million-dollar problem. During Colorado’s recent bye week, Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, returned to his Texas roots at Country Prime Ranch, located just outside of Dallas. However, this wasn’t just a relaxing trip; it turned into an eye-opener about a major issue plaguing Texas farmlands.
In a recent video shared on his YouTube channel, Well Off Media, Sanders highlighted a destructive problem facing Texas ranches and farms: feral hogs. The wild hog population, which has spiraled out of control in Texas, is causing severe damage to agricultural land. As Sanders walked through his ranch, pointing at ground torn up by these invasive animals, he remarked, “Hogs are tearing that up. That’s what hogs do. We smooth it out, but that’s what hogs do. They tear up property. We gotta get rid of them.”
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The $500 Million Wild Hog Damage in Texas Agriculture
Texas is home to the largest population of feral hogs in the United States, and their presence isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a costly crisis. These animals are responsible for an estimated $500 million in annual damage to Texas agriculture, tearing up crops, damaging pastures, and undermining soil quality. Farmers and ranchers across the state, including Sanders, are constantly working to repair the damage left in the wake of these hog invasions.
At his 100-acre ranch in Canton, Texas, Sanders showcased the ongoing battle against this problem. Walking past patches of mud that had been recently flattened, he explained, “When you see it smooth like that, we did that to replace what the hogs have done.” Despite continuous efforts to repair and maintain the land, the hogs’ destructive behavior persists, creating a continuous cycle of damage and recovery for Texas landowners.
Sanders’ Country Lifestyle: Embracing Nature and Protection Measures
Despite the challenges, Sanders embraces his Texan lifestyle at Country Prime Ranch. Enjoying outdoor activities like four-wheeling and fishing with friends and family, he is no stranger to rural life and its inherent challenges. “I absolutely love riding around Country Prime Ranch with my kids and friends, enjoying the fruits of our labor,” he shared. But his love for the land also means taking precautions.
Wild hogs aren’t the only threats Sanders faces at his ranch. He explained why he keeps a 12-gauge shotgun on his four-wheeler. Between hogs, snakes, coyotes, and water moccasins, having a reliable firearm on hand is essential for his safety and the protection of his land. “Out here in the country, there’s a lot that happens,” he added, showing his deep connection to rural life and his pragmatic approach to managing the wild.
How Feral Hogs Became an Agricultural Nightmare in Texas
Texas has long struggled with its wild hog population. Originally brought to the U.S. by early settlers, these hogs now number in the millions across Texas alone, making them one of the most invasive and destructive species in the state. Their rapid reproduction and adaptability mean they spread quickly, often moving into areas where they cause significant harm to crops and land, disrupting local ecosystems.
The state has explored various solutions to curb the feral hog population, including hunting, trapping, and even poisoning under strict regulations. However, due to the sheer scale of the issue, controlling these invasive animals has been challenging and costly.
A Well-Deserved Break for a Winning Coach
Beyond dealing with the hog problem, Sanders is making waves in his coaching career. In his second year at Colorado, he’s led the Buffaloes to a bowl game for the first time since 2020, marking a significant milestone for the program. Their recent 34-23 win over Cincinnati propelled them to a 6-2 record, earning Colorado its first AP Poll ranking at No. 23.
Reflecting on their progress, Sanders emphasized that this is just the beginning for his team. “That’s not the end goal for us. That’s the beginning… We want so much more.” With a Big Ten Championship now in their sights, Sanders and his team are preparing for their next game against Texas Tech on November 9, a matchup that promises to be a critical step in Colorado’s journey this season.
What’s Next for Deion Sanders and Colorado?
While his Texan roots call him back to Country Prime Ranch, Sanders’ focus remains on Colorado’s ambitions in college football. The Buffaloes have a solid chance at ending their two-decade-long bowl victory drought, last achieved in 2004. With four games remaining in the regular season, Sanders and his team have a clear path to further success if they can maintain their current momentum.
However, as Sanders heads back to Boulder, the wild hog issue at his Texas ranch will remain a constant reminder of the challenges facing landowners across the state. His experience underscores a broader agricultural issue that Texas must continue to address for the future of its farmlands.
FAQ: Common Questions About Deion Sanders and Texas’ Feral Hog Problem
1. How much damage do feral hogs cause in Texas?
Feral hogs cause an estimated $500 million in agricultural damage each year in Texas, affecting crops, pastures, and ecosystems.
2. What measures are being taken to control feral hogs in Texas?
The state employs methods like hunting, trapping, and regulated use of toxic baits to reduce the hog population. However, the issue remains significant due to the hogs’ rapid reproduction rates.
3. Why does Deion Sanders carry a shotgun on his ranch?
Sanders uses a 12-gauge shotgun for protection against wild hogs, snakes, coyotes, and other potentially dangerous wildlife that frequently roam his ranch.
4. How has Deion Sanders impacted the Colorado Buffaloes?
In his second year, Sanders led Colorado to its first bowl game since 2020, with hopes to end a 20-year bowl victory drought and push further into championship territory.
5. What are Colorado’s goals this season under Sanders?
After achieving a 6-2 record, Colorado aims to compete for the Big Ten Championship, marking a significant goal in Sanders’ tenure with the Buffaloes.
