By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) is inviting producers in the 14 counties of the Maumee River Watershed project area to participate in a new round of H2Ohio open enrollment. This initiative encourages producers to implement science-based best management practices (BMPs) that play a crucial role in enhancing water quality in Lake Erie and other bodies of water. Producers in the following eligible counties are encouraged to enroll or re-enroll acreage in this essential program: Allen, Auglaize, Defiance, Fulton, Hancock, Hardin, Henry, Lucas, Mercer, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert, Williams, and Wood.
H2Ohio has already garnered substantial interest, with more than 2,400 producers currently enrolled. ODA emphasizes the importance of producers who are either implementing different BMPs or considering H2Ohio BMPs to join now. The greater the number of producers participating in H2Ohio, the stronger the message sent by the agricultural community regarding their dedication to improving water quality.
To better cater to producers' needs and address any unforeseen challenges in the program, ODA has enhanced the delivery of the H2Ohio program, streamlining BMPs and updating incentives. Additionally, a new management software, MyFarms, will facilitate the creation of Voluntary Nutrient Management Plans (VNMPs) and assist with H2Ohio's enrollment, certification, and verification processes for producers and their advisors.
Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) are now hosting informational sessions for producers to learn more and sign up for the program. Producers are encouraged to reach out to their local SWCDs with any questions and to submit program applications.
The Ohio Agriculture Conservation Initiative (OACI) is a collaborative effort involving agriculture, conservation, environmental, and research communities. Its aim is to recognize farmers for their commitment to advancing methods that enhance water quality in Ohio and increasing the adoption of best management practices on farms. ODA collaborates with OACI to promote H2Ohio signup, provide education, and enhance visibility for Ohio's producers.
H2Ohio represents a comprehensive, data-driven approach to long-term water quality improvement. The initiative encourages the adoption of agricultural best management practices, the restoration of wetlands, and the replacement of home septic systems to reduce nutrients contributing to harmful algal blooms.
Photo Credit: H2Ohio
Categories: Ohio, Sustainable Agriculture