Ohio house advances drought aid to support struggling farmers

By Andi Anderson

The Ohio House panel has advanced a $10 million drought relief proposal to aid farmers affected by severe drought across 52 counties.

This funding aims to support struggling agricultural operations by addressing critical challenges such as feed shortages and water access.

The U.S. Drought Monitor reports conditions ranging from “abnormally dry” to “exceptional drought” across Ohio, with Guernsey and Noble counties experiencing the most severe impacts.

Farmers in these regions face rising feed costs, with hay prices soaring from $40 to $80 per bale, forcing many to sell livestock.

The proposal, co-sponsored by Representatives Don Jones and Jay Edwards, seeks to double the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s budget for soil and water districts.

The funding will provide immediate relief through initiatives like reimbursing water transport and feed costs while laying the groundwork for future drought mitigation.

Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge highlighted the gaps in federal aid, noting that existing programs often fall short of addressing local needs.

Stakeholders, including the Ohio Farm Bureau, emphasized the prolonged financial strain on farmers, who have been feeding livestock from stored hay months earlier than usual due to poor yields.

Lawmakers acknowledged the urgency of the situation, with some advocating for additional long-term solutions like a climate mitigation fund or expanded insurance for grazing and haying operations.

Despite differing opinions on the scale of intervention needed, the panel unanimously supported the initial funding measure, citing the critical need to provide relief before the next drought season.

As Ohio grapples with increasing drought frequency, the proposal marks a significant step toward supporting its agricultural community.

With broad legislative backing, the measure is likely to pass in the coming weeks, offering much-needed aid to farmers and fostering resilience against future challenges.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-banksphotos