News

More assistance for Lake Erie basin farmers

The Ohio Department of Agriculture says farmers in the Western Lake Erie Basin can get additional assistance to plant small grains such as wheat, barley, oats, or cereal rye.

The Ohio Working Lands Small Grains Program is a voluntary program through the ODA. Producers must plant and harvest small grains, apply manure, and plant a cover crop to receive a cost-share payment to help offset costs.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine says the program both supports farmers and protects Lake Erie.

The program, funded through Ohio Senate Bill 299, will provide $23.5 million for soil and water conservation districts located in the Western Lake Erie Basin for nutrient management programs.

Producers interested in the program should contact their local SWCD for more information.

The ODA has already distributed $3.5 million to more than 20 soil and water conservation districts in Northwest Ohio. ODA Director Dorothy Pelanda recently announced plans for three new assistance programs for the remaining $20 million: the Ohio Working Lands Program, the Voluntary Nutrient Management Plan Development Program, and the Cost Share and Equipment Buy Down Program.

The Ohio Working Lands Small Grains Program will fall under the Ohio Working Lands Program.

Tadd Nicholson, executive director of the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association, says he is thankful for the assistance and all small grain growers in Northwest Ohio should consider participating in the program.