Farmer’s Guide to Trucking Regulations available to Ohio Farm Bureau members
The guide includes a farm driver checklist, overview of state and federal regulations and exemptions, CDL qualifications and more.
Read More
As wind and solar development projects increase across the state, so do the questions from landowners. Over the past few months, Ohio Farm Bureau has received numerous calls from members as well as local government leaders asking about everything from leases to eminent domain involving these projects. Ohio Farm Bureau has been talking to members both individually and at special informational meetings held in local communities.
“The reason why these projects are taking off is because technology is more advanced than it was five or 10 years ago. When it comes to solar, things have literally exploded. We’re seeing 12 different solar projects right now in various stages of development. And the construction of wind turbines is on the upswing right now,” said Dale Arnold, Ohio Farm Bureau director of energy policy. Coal-fired energy plants are also being phased out quicker than anticipated, increasing the need for alternative sources of energy, Arnold said.
Solar Energy
When it comes to solar energy, the main questions from Farm Bureau members have centered around what to look for in a lease and company transparency. Arnold recommends landowners consult with an attorney knowledgeable about these types of leases before signing anything.
County Farm Bureaus have been working on policies that call for companies to do more and better outreach about projects.
“Currently, a company only needs to post ads in a newspaper in a county seat and send first-class mailed letters for those in project areas regarding when the first community meeting is,” Arnold said. “Could there be other and more effective types of outreach and notice?”
Wind Energy
With wind projects, the main questions center around the placement of turbines, eminent domain and how environmental concerns are being addressed. Wind turbine placement has to adhere to setback requirements from public roads, property lines and existing buildings. Those requirements are currently under review in the state legislature. Arnold noted that rarely does eminent domain apply in these type of cases. He said the Ohio Power Siting Board has jurisdiction over both solar and wind projects.
To request an informational meeting about solar, wind or natural gas projects, contact your county Farm Bureau.
Labor has always been an issue, mainly because we are a seasonal operation. So that's a challenge finding somebody who only wants to work three months out of a year, sometimes up to six months.
I appreciate the benefit of having a strong voice in my corner. The extras that are included in membership are wonderful, but I'm a member because of the positive impact to my local and state agricultural communities.
I see the value and need to be engaged in the community I live in, to be a part of the decision-making process and to volunteer with organizations that help make our community better.
Farm Bureau involvement has taught me how to grow my professional and leadership experience outside of the workforce and how to do that in a community-centric way.
With not growing up on a farm, I’d say I was a late bloomer to agriculture. I feel so fortunate that I found the agriculture industry. There are so many opportunities for growth.
Knowing that horticulture is under the agriculture umbrella and having Farm Bureau supporting horticulture like it does the rest of ag is very important.
If it wasn't for Farm Bureau, I personally, along with many others, would not have had the opportunity to meet with our representatives face to face in Washington.
Featured Articles
Growing our Generation: Grassroots advocacy
Ohio Farm Bureau provides opportunities, platforms and resources to help you develop your voice in the industry and give farmers a seat at the table with leaders and legislators.
Read More
Farm Bureau welcomes summer ethanol blend waiver
The emergency fuel waiver to allow the sale of summer gasoline blends containing 15% ethanol will lengthen the period during which Americans can continue buying E15 from June 1 to Sept. 15.
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau introduces Small-Scale Food Business Guide
The Small-Scale Food Business Guide covers federal and state regulations for selling food products such as raw meat, dairy, eggs, baked goods, cottage foods, fruits and vegetables, honey and more.
Read More
Cashing in the direct-to-consumer food sales boom
New resources and technology are broadening the different types of sales tools and strategies available to farmers.
Read More
DeWine announces statewide open enrollment for H2Ohio Agricultural Incentive Program
ODA will enroll 500,000 acres into the program for a two-week sign-up period, beginning April 22, 2024, through May 6, 2024. Contact local SWCD offices to apply.
Read More
Share named ExploreAg and Youth Development Specialist
Katie Share of Columbus has been named ExploreAg and Youth Development Specialist for Ohio Farm Bureau.
Read More
Klopfenstein named Young Ag Professional and Ag Literacy Program Specialist
Mary Klopfenstein of Delphos has been named Young Ag Professional and Ag Literacy Program Specialist for Ohio Farm Bureau.
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan now offered to all sole proprietors
The plan has been updated to give sole proprietors access to more rate stability and a smart solution that offers potential savings on health care.
Read More
Ohioans can compete for ag business startup funds
The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online by June 15 for the 2025 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge.
Read More