By Andi Anderson
The 2024 drought has severely impacted farmers across Ohio, particularly in southern and eastern counties, straining resources, crops, and livestock operations. Ohio Farm Bureau is advocating for relief through Ohio House Bill 683, which proposes $10 million in funding for the hardest-hit counties to address drought mitigation.
This funding aims to alleviate financial stress and support farmers dealing with feed and water shortages. Testifying before the Ohio House Finance Committee, an Ohio Farm Bureau representative emphasized the drought's toll on farming operations, noting that many producers depleted their winter hay supplies by mid-summer.
“To put this into perspective, hay that normally costs $40-$45 per bale is now close to $80-$85,” the testimony stated, highlighting the increased financial burden on farmers.
The drought's effects are expected to persist into 2025 due to insufficient water table recovery. Farmers are already selling livestock to ease financial and operational pressures.
“For an industry that consistently runs on thin margins and is literally at the whim of nature, this funding has the potential to save family farms,” added another Farm Bureau representative.
In addition to supporting HB 683, the Ohio Farm Bureau is calling on members to share their stories about the challenges they faced during the 2024 drought. Personal testimonies are crucial to emphasizing the importance of this funding.
By securing this relief, Ohio aims to provide stability to its agricultural sector and support farmers as they rebuild their operations and safeguard their livelihoods for future generations.
Photo Credit:ohio-farm-bureau
Categories: Ohio, Government & Policy, Weather