Applications for Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans now available
Members have three ways to apply: contacting a certified agent, calling 833-468-4280 or visiting ohiofarmbureauhealthplans.org.
Read More
In November 2020, Ohio Farm Bureau filed briefs in separate, yet related cases on behalf of landowners in Washington County. The cases revolve around expanded transmission line easements being sought by Ohio Power (AEP), including on land owned by county Farm Bureau members.
The first case involves county Common Pleas Court Judge John Halliday. After ruling against the landowners on their claims that the utility company is taking more rights than they need to build a transmission line, the judge set a date for a trial to determine how much money is due to the landowners. However, the law states that a trial for money should only be set subject to any appeal on the question of necessity.
“The landowners have appealed his order on the basis of necessity, and therefore, should be entitled to a stay of the proceedings for the money damages,” said Leah Curtis, OFBF policy counsel and senior director of member engagement. The landowners filed in the Ohio Supreme Court for a writ of prohibition, which would prohibit a government official from performing any task before the appeal is heard. Ohio Farm Bureau supported the landowners with an amicus brief.
A second set of cases are the appeals of the underlying case presided over by Halliday. Here, Ohio Power is attempting to take an easement by eminent domain for its transmission line. However, the company is asking to take more than is necessary to build this line — including the right to build structures in the easement, and a “tree protection zone” that extends 80 feet on either side of the easement with no plan to compensate for such “zone.”
“There are actually four separate cases that concern this same project, and we have filed in all four of them,” Curtis said. “We are arguing that the court must scrutinize ‘necessity’ in each project, as well as examine the burden of proof, constitutionality of presumptions and the meaning of ‘abandonment.’”
Photo: istockphoto.com
My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Featured Articles
Ohio Farm Bureau congratulates U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan on election as minority leader
Jordan was selected by his Republican colleagues to lead the party in the U.S. House of Representatives beginning in January.
Read More
Ohio Farm Bureau supports Rep. Brown for House Ag Chair
Brown, who currently serves as vice ranking member of the committee, has built a strong working relationship with the Ohio agriculture community.
Read More
2026 Ohio Farm Bureau Federation AGGPAC Election Report
Ohio voters delivered major changes to state and federal leadership during the 2026 midterm election, with several incumbents losing their re-election bids and Democrats gaining seats across the state.
Read More
Barn quilt contest celebrates century farms
Eligible farm and ranch families have the opportunity to share their story for a chance to receive a custom handcrafted barn quilt recognizing their century operation. Enter by Jan. 31, 2027.
Read More
Farm safety vs. risk management: What’s the difference and why it matters
Farm safety and risk management are deeply interconnected, forming the foundation of a resilient and sustainable operation.
Read More