By Andi Anderson
Ohio soybean farmers gathered in Pickaway County for the first stop of the Ohio Soybean Association and Ohio Soybean Council’s hometown tour.
The event brought together farm leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss important issues shaping agriculture in 2025.
Policy was a key focus of the tour. Congressman Dave Taylor and Farm Service Agency State Director Don Jones joined farmers to provide updates on federal programs and disaster assistance.
Southern Ohio farmers were hit hard in 2024 by both drought and storms, making government support essential for recovery.
Farmers learned how to access new programs and steps to take to protect their operations. As one leader noted, “It was great for farmers to hear what they need to be doing and the steps they need to take.”
Another highlight was a session on farm margins. With crop prices low and input costs high, farmers are facing thin profits.
Experts from Farm Credit Mid America encouraged producers to carefully track their cost of production, evaluate expenses like equipment and cash rents, and explore new tools such as artificial intelligence for financial decisions.
They also emphasized diversification, both in agriculture and outside, as a way to sustain family farms.
Weather also plays a central role in farm planning. Michael Clark, CEO of BAM Weather, provided a 30–90 day forecast. He predicted normal rainfall patterns but warmer-than-average conditions heading into harvest.
Farmers were advised to prepare for a hot and dry September followed by wetter conditions in November.
Looking ahead, the next hometown tour stop will be held August 28 at the construction site of the Louis Dreyfus soybean processing facility in Upper Sandusky. The event will focus on biofuels, market outlooks, and value-added opportunities for soybean growers.
The tour serves as an important opportunity for farmers to stay informed, share experiences, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities facing Ohio agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, Crops, Soybeans