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The Ohio Agriculture Conservation Initiative’s recently released Auglaize River Watershed Assessment Report provides insight into measurable progress in conservation practices and Ohio farmers’ continued commitment to water quality. 

According to the report, approximately 63% of the fields surveyed were currently enrolled in a cost-share conservation program at the local, state or federal level. The report also notes that 65% of the surveyed fields use no-till or minimal tillage practices, and that 97% of those surveyed are soil tested at least once every four years. 

“The OACI assessment of the Auglaize River Watershed provides another important benchmark for conservation and nutrient management efforts in one of Ohio’s key agricultural regions. The information gathered through these assessments helps identify how efforts are making an impact and where additional focus may be needed. The report also reinforces that farmers continue to adopt new tools and practices to strengthen water quality,” said Jordan Hoewischer, director of water quality and research for Ohio Farm Bureau. 

OACI conducted the survey in 2025, making it the latest in a series of watershed assessments being completed across the state to better understand conservation and nutrient management practices being implemented on Ohio farms. Previous assessments include the Lower Maumee, Sandusky, Upper Scioto and Western Lake Erie Basin watersheds. 

Ohio Farm Bureau is a founding member of OACI and works with partners across agriculture, conservation, environmental and research communities to recognize farmers for advancing methods that improve water quality in Ohio and increase the use of best management practices on farms.

Read the full report.

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