Farm and Ranch
Victoria SWCD Director named President of Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association
By media release
Apr 9, 2026
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Victoria County, Texas -- Stephen Diebel, a longtime conservation leader and dedicated Victoria Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Director, has been elected as President of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) following the 2026 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. His election continues a strong tradition of leadership rooted in conservation, succeeding Carl Ray Polk Jr., a former member of the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB).

Diebel is co-owner and manager of Diebel Cattle Company, a fifth-generation cow-calf operation based in Victoria County. With deep ties to the land and a strong commitment to sustainable ranching, Diebel has spent his career balancing production agriculture with responsible conservation practices that protect soil health, water resources, and the long-term viability of working lands. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Texas A&M University in 1995 and began his service to the Victoria SWCD in 1998, where he has played a key role in supporting local landowners and advancing conservation efforts across the region.

Throughout his career, Diebel has demonstrated a strong dedication to leadership and service across the agricultural community. He has served as a TSCRA Director since 2011, helping guide policy and advocacy efforts on behalf of Texas and Southwestern cattle producers. His involvement also includes active membership in both the Coastal Prairie Grazing Lands Coalition and the Texas Grazing Lands Coalition, where he has worked to promote sustainable grazing practices and rangeland stewardship.

In addition to his work in conservation and ranching, Diebel has contributed his time and expertise to the Texas A&M College of Agriculture Development Council, supporting the advancement of agricultural education and research. He remains actively involved in community and industry organizations, including the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and Trinity Episcopal Church. In recognition of his leadership and commitment to agriculture, Diebel was named Outstanding Young Farmer and Rancher of the Year by the Texas Farm Bureau in 2008.

Diebel’s election as TSCRA President reflects not only his extensive experience in the cattle industry, but also his lifelong dedication to conservation and responsible land stewardship. His leadership will continue to strengthen the connection between agricultural production and natural resource conservation across Texas and the Southwest.

Stephen and his wife, Jennifer, reside in Victoria County and are proud parents of three children: Sarah, Julie, and Clayton.