Buckeye Farm News

Ohio Farm Bureau is helping hundreds of Ohio farmers express their concerns to the U.S. EPA on a guidance document that would expand the agency’s interpretation of the Clean Water Act.  So far, the organization has gathered more than 600 photos and comments of Ohio farmers who are opposed to expanding federal regulatory authority from “navigable” waters to all waters, such as streams and ditches.  American Farm Bureau has criticized the proposal as bad public policy that takes away the longstanding authority of states and localities.   Ohio Farm Bureau will submit a book highlighting its members’ views in public comments to the  agency as well as Ohio's congressional delegation.

The comments come as Ohio farmers are leading their own effort to protect water quality by working with state and local agencies and promoting improved nutrient management through the 4-R program, which encourages the right fertilizer source, at the right rate, at the right time and with the right placement.