Local Farm Bureaus host CAUV Informational Session

The Adams, Brown, Clermont, and Highland County Farm Bureaus held a members-only Current Agricultural Use Value Informational Session on Saturday, June 8 at 9 a.m.. A total of 45 local members attended the session, representing all four counties.

The CAUV program, passed in 1973 and implemented in 1975, is designed to tax farmland based on its agricultural value rather than its market value. This approach aims to ease the tax burden on farmers, preserving farmland by making it more affordable to maintain. However, the recent reappraisal and update in 2023 have caused CAUV values to surge significantly, impacting farmers with increased property tax bills.

Leah Curtis, policy counsel and senior director of member engagement with the Ohio Farm Bureau, was the session’s keynote speaker. She provided a detailed overview of the factors contributing to the recent increases in CAUV values. Curtis also offered insights into the property tax system and updated attendees on legislative actions that could affect future CAUV calculations and tax assessments.

Several factors are driving the substantial increase in CAUV values, with some counties reporting hikes between 80% and 100%. Key reasons include commodity prices, interest rates, soil productivity data and market trends.

For those not currently members, the session highlighted the numerous advantages of joining Farm Bureau:

  • Advocacy: Strong representation at local, state, and national levels on agricultural issues.
  • Education: Access to sessions, workshops and resources that help farmers stay informed about industry changes and best practices.
  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with fellow farmers and industry professionals.
  • Discounts: Savings on a variety of products and services, including equipment and insurance.

Farm Bureau’s role in supporting the agricultural community is crucial, especially during times of significant change and uncertainty. The recent CAUV informational session is a prime example of the valuable support and insights available to members.

For more information about joining Farm Bureau and the benefits it offers, visit the Farm Bureau website or contact your local county office.

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