Menu

2003 brought about some significant improvements in the business climate for livestock producers. The process of permitting large livestock farms and gathering public input became considerably less contentious. Farm Bureau had a hand in passing HB 152 that brought Ohio’s Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) regulations into compliance with new federal laws and clarified that local governments can not supercede the state’s authority to regulate the location and construction of livestock facilities. OFBF encouraged Soil and Water Conservation Districts to be proactive in assisting operators of medium and small livestock farms that aren’t under state permitting rules.

OFBF was involved as Ohio EPA’s general National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permits were drafted. And a Farm Bureau-supported court ruling was upheld that said filers of nuisance suits against livestock farmers are liable for court costs and damages if the suit is found to be without merit.

These positive occurrences for livestock farmers also were beneficial to corn and soybean growers whose crops are sold as livestock feed. In spite of an improved environment for livestock producers, ongoing developments, particularly with farms not required to obtain permits, will continue to require Farm Bureau’s attention.