Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
Texas lake levels rise after recent Hill Country floods
Recent flooding has sent large volumes of water into the Highland Lakes, raising reservoir levels after years of drought and low inflows. The changes have prompted floodgate releases while creating questions about long-term water supplies, drought conditions and safety for boaters navigating debris-filled lakes.
Lower Colorado River Authority spokesperson Clara Tuma joins the Standard with more.
John Cornyn donors hesitate to back Ken Paxton
New campaign finance records show few of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn’s largest donors have shifted their support to Republican Senate nominee Ken Paxton following their bitter primary runoff. The hesitation comes as Democrat James Talarico reports a sizable fundraising advantage in a closely watched race.
Axios politics reporter Asher Price joins the Standard with more.
Starr County declares disaster over New World screwworm
Starr County has issued a local disaster declaration following the first confirmed case of New World screwworm in the region. The parasitic fly can threaten livestock, wildlife and pets, and the declaration follows a statewide order from Gov. Greg Abbott as agricultural officials work to contain its spread.
KEDT’s Rob Boscamp reports.
Prairie dogs return to Fort Worth Nature Center
More than a decade after its prairie dog population suddenly died out, the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge is rebuilding its colony through rescue and relocation efforts. A new boardwalk and viewing deck now give visitors a closer look at the animals and their role in the prairie ecosystem.
Refuge manager Jared Wood joins the Standard with their story.
Public investment fuels Texas semiconductor boom
Texas has manufactured semiconductors for decades, but new state and federal funding is accelerating expansion across the industry. Billions of dollars are supporting new fabrication plants, research and workforce development as officials seek to strengthen domestic chip production and reduce reliance on overseas suppliers.
Texas Tribune economy and industry reporter Paul Cobler joins the Standard with more.
Wizzie Brown is a program specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and our go-to insect expert. She joins the show with more on what’s buggin’ her this week: Thrips.
Dallas fashion show centers models with disabilities
An inclusive fashion show at Dallas’ Fair Park is putting people with disabilities at the center of the runway. For participating models, the event offers more than clothing and performance, creating opportunities to make personal choices, build confidence and be seen on their own terms.
KERA’s Zara Amaechi reports.
How to save flood-damaged photos and heirlooms
Families recovering from floods often face difficult decisions about waterlogged photos, documents and irreplaceable keepsakes. Preservation specialists say many damaged belongings can still be saved if they are handled carefully and not discarded too quickly.
Rebecca Elder, a cultural heritage preservation consultant and adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Austin, joins the Standard with more.
