Conservation

Investing in Farmers’ Responsible Land Management Practices
Important funding has been allocated to partner with farmers in the Maumee River Watershed to continue expanding best practices focused on proactive conservation solutions to address the state’s water quality. Steps are being taken to increase the reach of programs like Blanchard River Demonstration Farms Network and H2Ohio to invest in these practices in every corner of the state.

Here are some ways we have worked to support conservation.

Ohio Farm Bureau applauds results of OACI’s 2026 Assessment Survey Report

The report provides a data-driven look at conservation practices across the Western Lake Erie Basin and emphasizes farmers are doing their part in water quality.

Ohio Farm Bureau fighting for water quality, regulation equity

Ohio EPA has recently proposed allowing data centers to obtain ‘general’ National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for their stormwater/wastewater discharges.

Demo farms project ends, impactful research endures

The network was established in fall 2015 on farms in Hardin and Hancock counties. Nearly 200 different tours and events took place on the three farms totaling nearly 4,000 visitors in its 10-year span.

AgTech Innovation Hub drainage research turns into reality

What if farmers could harness the moisture that falls during the winter season and use it when their crops are lacking water during the growing season — all with the touch of a button.

Forecast for 2025 Lake Erie algal bloom released

The 2025 algal bloom for the Western Lake Erie Basin is expected to have a severity index of 3, according to the final forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Ohio timber law: Don’t miss the forest or the trees

Overall, proper care, maintenance and communication are all essential parts of the process when it comes to trees.

Ohio lawmakers tour farms, witness conservation innovations in action

Over 30 tour participants witnessed a variety of conservation strategies in action, including cover crops, no-till and strip-till systems, two-stage ditches, land buffers and advanced manure management.

Water Quality Resources

Experts are monitoring the severity of this season’s algal bloom in The Western Lake Erie Basin. As more research is…

Watershed moments for water quality

A proactive approach to water quality in Ohio is getting results without burdensome regulations.

Nationwide News: Digesters transform waste into sustainable on-farm energy

If you’re interested in exploring manure digesters for your farm, talk to an Ohio State University Extension specialist familiar with the systems.