US Agriculture Secretary Visits Ohio Poultry and Crop Farms

By Andi Anderson

On April 28, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins toured several Western Ohio farms alongside Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge.

The visit focused on two pressing issues in agriculture: the impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and innovative nutrient management solutions.

The first stop was Weaver Eggs in Versailles, where Rollins met with local egg producers. So far in 2025, HPAI has affected nearly 15 million birds in Ohio. Mercer and Darke counties are among the hardest hit, with dozens of flocks impacted.

During a roundtable discussion, Rollins outlined USDA’s five-part HPAI strategy: stronger biosecurity, financial relief, vaccine development, supply support, and import adjustments.

“There’s no doubt, especially here in Ohio, that agriculture is the key industry,” said Rollins. She emphasized the USDA’s role in supporting farmers through biosecurity investments and by treating food security as national security.

Alex Weaver, president of Weaver Eggs, reported losing 1.3 million hens earlier this year despite preventive efforts. He appreciated the federal attention, noting their discussion on vaccination and indemnity challenges.

Ohio ranks second nationally in egg production, making HPAI recovery a top concern for farmers and leaders.

The visit continued at the Schmitmeyer family farm, where Rollins observed a demonstration of the 360 RAIN system — a smart, self-driving irrigation tool. It delivers water and nutrients directly to crops through a mobile app, minimizing runoff and optimizing growth.

Governor DeWine linked this innovation to his H2Ohio water quality program, which supports conservation efforts but now faces potential funding cuts. “It’s a big mistake to cut back on H2Ohio,” he said.

Rollins reaffirmed her dedication to supporting agriculture, saying, “When we finish at this USDA… we will have made it more efficient, more effective, and even more joyful for our farmers.”

Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic