AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY REVIEW
FALL 2019
INSIDE
ACROSS THE TABLE:
IT’S NOT AN ENDING - IT’S A NEW BEGINNING
STATE BUDGET INCLUDES INITIATIVES
FOR AGRICULTURE
CULTIVATING SAFE FARM OPERATIONS:
AN ONLINE LEARNING SAFETY PROGRAM
Multimedia Company
Providing the community with an array of niche products, Spectrum Publications has a magazine for everyone. Family Today is a new quarterly magazine geared toward helping families thrive in Wayne and Holmes Counties by offering a variety of content focused on parenting, finance, inspiration, health and family. Ohio Gas & Oil is a monthly magazine that provides members or interested parties of the gas & oil industry with current and accurate information. Amish Heartland displays the beauty and culture found within the Amish Heartland of Ohio. It is available at AAA locations throughout the state. Harvest is produced quarterly with a 10 county distribution, find it locally in Wayne and Holmes Counties. The magazine offers expert knowledge of timely agricultural topics and news.
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“Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.” — Henry Ward Beecher harvest
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FALL 2019 | Volume 06 | Issue 04
Features
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04 06 10 12 13 16
STATE BUDGET INCLUDES INITIATIVES For Agriculture
YOUNG AG PROFESSIONALS: Growing Our Generation
FARMLAND TAX VALUATIONS DOWN, Going Lower
ACROSS THE TABLE: IT’S NOT AN ENDING It’s A Beginning
FEEDING ANIMALS SUSTAINS STEADY GROWTH For Kalmbach Feeds
CULTIVATING SAFE FARM OPERATIONS
An e-Learning Safety Series Program
In Every Issue
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CAN YOU NAME THIS TOOL? SUBSCRIBE TO HARVEST HARVEST EVENTS CALENDAR
© 2019 Spectrum Publications – A Division of GateHouse Ohio Company 212 Multimedia E. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691 | 330-264-1125 | 800-686-2958 | spectrum@the-daily-record .com Group Publisher – Bill Albrecht | Content Coordinator – Doris Sigg | Designer – Noel Simms
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HARVEST magazine is a quarterly publication centered in some of the most agriculturally rich counties in Ohio. We will bring you the latest in farming technologies, industry practices and hot topics in agriculture from industry experts in our area. If you wish to submit an article or offer a suggestion, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.
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Hot Topics
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D E E & SU P S R E B PLY A E B
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Ohio Farm Bureau’s Elite Training Program
HEMP LEGISLATION PASSES: Rules Are Next
AG INNOVATION CHALLENGE TO AWARD Startup Funds
OHIO FSA REQUESTS
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Disaster Declarations
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OHIO FARM BUREAU, PARTNERS PURCHASE
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FOREIGN OWNERSHIP
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MYTHBUSTERS:
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OHIO FARM BUREAU NAMES
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State Budget Includes Initiatives
By | Kelli Milligan Stammen PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR, OHIO FARM BUREAU POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU
FOR AGRICULTURE
the state’s main operating budget for fiscal years 2020 and 2021 was signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine after being passed by the Ohio Legislature July 17, two and a half weeks later than its June 30 deadline. “Farm Bureau applauds the Ohio House and Senate for including two of our highest priority issues, preservation of the business income deduction and a collaborative plan to address water quality challenges through Gov. DeWine’s H2Ohio Initiative, in the state’s operating budget,” said Adam Sharp, executive vice president of Ohio Farm Bureau. “Farm Bureau also appreciates the funding increases for our partners at the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Extension Services, and Soil and Water Conservation Districts, all of whom deliver critical information to our farmers regarding best practices.”
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The legislature allocated $172 million in funding for H2Ohio for this budget cycle through the use of budget surpluses. Funding will be divided between the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to support water quality improvement projects. Long-term funding is still being addressed in a stand alone bill. “The governor’s approach to water quality is refreshing for Ohio agriculture. The H2Ohio initiative and its extensive resources shows an understanding of the complexities that come with this issue,” Sharp said. “This funding being included in the state budget is a great example of how this administration and legislators are fully committed to work with farmers throughout the state toward the common goal of clean water.”
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YOUNG AG PROFESSIONALS:
From | OFB Website POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU
GROWING OUR GENERATION
Young Agricultural Winter Leadership Experience Professionals are 18 to 35, singles and married, Jan. 31-Feb. 1, 2020 Columbus who are interested in improving the business of agriculture, learning new ideas and developing leadership skills. Whether you have a half-acre or 5,000 acres or work in the food and farming industry, Ohio Farm Bureau’s Young Ag Professionals has a place for you! Farm Bureau Young Agricultural Professionals are full- and part-time farmers, OSU Extension agents, teachers, consumer educators, former Ohio Farm Bureau Youth members, FFA and 4-H alumni, farm media communicators, livestock and equine enthusiasts, wine makers, alpaca breeders, seed representatives, beekeepers, green industry employees, gardeners, foodies and more. The Young Ag Professionals Winter Leadership The following Programs and Activities are offered Experience is an annual conference with the by the Young Agricultural Professionals: opportunity to build personal and professional
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BUREAU
skills, network with agricultural leaders, and learn gain new information and skills through breakout how to make a difference in your community, Farm sessions, and tour local ag and tourism locations. Bureau and agriculture. Conference sessions cover topics ranging from traditional agriculture, niche State Committee farming/marketing to consumer education topics.
Washington, D.C. Leadership Experience
State Committee members assist with creating educational and leadership development programs for Ohio Farm Bureau’s Young Agricultural Professionals. A total of eight positions are on the team, and a position may be filled by either a single individual or a married couple. Members Young professionals with strong leadership serve a two-year term with four returning and four potential are hand-selected each year to share new positions each year. their ideas with members of congress and to YOUNG AG continues on pg. 8 learn about international agriculture and how to grow personally and professionally. The trip takes place each September and includes a visit with the young professional’s congressional representative, meeting with American Farm Bureau staff members for industry and issues updates, a behind-thescenes look at how Washington really works, networking with other young professionals, and exploring a world view of agriculture during a visit to an embassy. Contact your county Farm Bureau if you are interested in the annual trip.
American Farm Bureau Federation Fusion Conference
Ohio Farm Bureau sent 10 Young Agricultural Professionals members to attend the American Farm Bureau’s Fusion Conference in March to enhance their knowledge of and experience with Farm Bureau. The conference brings together more than 1,200 Farm Bureau volunteer leaders from across the country from Promotions & Education, Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers & Ranchers programs. These members represent the next generation of Farm Bureau leaders. Members went to Milwaukee to hear from motivational speakers, network with members and industry leaders,
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YOUNG AG continued from pg. 7
Outstanding Young Farmer
The Outstanding Young Farmer Contest is designed to recognize successful young farmers, age 35 or younger, for achievements in the business of farming and leadership in the agricultural community. Applicants should have a majority of their income subject to normal production risks as well as ownership (or part ownership) of the operation/business. Each year, the top three applicants have a 20-minute interview with a panel of three judges in September. Winners are recognized at the Ohio Farm Bureau annual meeting in December and receive 250 hours free use of an M-series tractor provided by Kubota, and a $1,000 Grainger gift certificate. The winner also receive an expense-paid trip to at the American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in Austin in January 2020.
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Excellence in Agriculture
ABOVE: Adam and Jess Campbell are winners of the 2018 Excellence in Agriculture award and were Top 10 finalists in the national Excellence in Agriculture contest. The Young Ag Professionals Winter Leadership Experience is an annual conference with the opportunity to build personal and professional skills, network with agricultural leaders, and learn how to make a difference in your community, Farm Bureau and agriculture. Conference sessions cover topics ranging from traditional agriculture, niche farming/marketing to consumer education topics.
Discussion Meet
If you are a good conversationalist, then this contest is for you. The Discussion Meet is a competitive event designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. The statewide winner is recognized at the Ohio Farm Bureau annual meeting and received an expense-paid trip to compete in the national contest at the AFBF annual convention in January. The winner also receives a $1,000 prize from Nationwide Insurance.
• Make Connections - Guest editors from across Ohio offer unique outlooks on current issues impacting young farmers. • New Opportunities - Get the latest on statewide events and learn how you can get involved in your community. • Mobile Friendly - Delivered to your inbox every two weeks. For more information on how to subscribe, visit https://ofbf.org/experience-yapsubscribe.
ABOVE: Victoria Popp, left, of Columbus won the 2019 Discussion Meet competition. YAP committee co-chairs Bennett and Liza Musselman presented the cash portion of her award during the YAP 2019 Winter Leadership Experience.
Young Agricultural Professionals is a part of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. For more information and how to join, visit https://ofbf.org/ about/.
The Discussion Meet semi-finals will be held at the Ohio Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in December 2019.
National Awards
SERVING THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY
The three winners of the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement Award, Excellence in Agriculture and Discussion Meet will each have their choice of a 2019 Ford truck. The Achievement Award truck is provided courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance. The Discussion Meet truck is provided courtesy of Farm Bureau Financial Services and the Excellence in Agriculture truck is provided courtesy of Country Financial. Runners-up in the contests each receive a Case IH Farmall 50A tractor, courtesy of Case IH. Third place finalists receive a Case IH 40-inch Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest and $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH and $2000 of Stanley Black & Decker merchandise courtesy of Stanley Black & Decker. Fourth place finalists receive a Case IH 40-inch Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest and $500 of Case IH parts, courtesy of Case IH.
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Farmland tax valuations down,
By | Joe Corneley SENIOR DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS OHIO FARM BUREAU
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GOING LOWER OHIO FARMLAND tax valuations continue to decline across the state according to a new study from Ohio State University. The study shows tax valuations have dropped by one third since the Current Agricultural Use Value formula was changed by the state legislature in 2017. Ohio Farm Bureau led the effort to make valuations more reflective of current farm economic factors. Before the formula change, the average tax valuation of land in Ohio was $1,310 per acre. After the change, the average valuation was $875 per acre, according to the study done by agricultural economists Robert Dinterman and Ani Katchova with OSU’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. Agricultural land values and the corresponding taxes paid on that land will continue to decline at an even faster rate, Dinterman said. Steeper decreases in taxes will be seen, on average, because the changes to the way the farmland is assessed have been phased in between 2017 and 2019. Small changes were made each year to avoid a sudden and dramatic drop in tax revenue, Dinterman said. But in 2020, the phase-in will end, so Ohio farmland owners should see another one-third
What Is CAUV? Current Agricultural Use Value, or CAUV, is a program
where farmland is taxed at a rate that reflects its value for agricultural purposes instead of its value as development property. It was enacted by Ohio voters in 1973 as a means to preserve farmland. Since 2014, Ohio Farm Bureau has been working to reform how CAUV is calculated and those reforms were passed in June 2017.
drop in the assessed value of their land, compared to the previous year, and similar declines in their taxes, Dinterman said. The average tax paid across the state was about $36 per acre of farmland in 2016. That dropped to around $31 in 2017, Dinterman said. By 2020, the average likely will be around $25 per acre, which would match the rate paid in 2011, he said. The legislative adjustment to the CAUV formula followed three years of grassroots efforts by Farm Bureau members who asked lawmakers to respond to dramatically higher farmland taxes at a time when the farm economy was slumping. “Ensuring that farmers have accurate property
tax values is integral to preserving farmland in our state,” said Ohio Farm Bureau Policy Counsel Leah Curtis. Another Farm Bureau promoted change is also paying off, she said. “The penalty on farmers who place land in conservation practices has been eliminated,” Curtis said. “Conservation lands are now being taxed at a lower rate, which helps farmers continue their efforts to protect water quality.”
Joe Corneley is senior director, corporate communications at Ohio Farm Bureau.
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ACROSS THE TABLE: IT’S NOT AN ENDING -
By | Adsm Sharp POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU JULY 5, 2019
IT’S A NEW BEGINNING
FOR THE past several years, Farm Bureau members have been hearing of changes coming in our relationship with our greatest partner, Nationwide. And if you know anything about the incredible importance of that relationship, change is naturally a scary proposition. So here’s the straight story of what’s going on. Since we founded the Farm Bureau Mutual Automobile Insurance Company in 1926, through its transition to its own identity as Nationwide in 1955, our two organizations have grown from the same seed: rooted in farming, nurtured by farmers and maturing into valuable servants of each other’s members. Farm Bureau helps our members navigate political, social and economic risk; Nationwide helps protect against financial risk. And we’re both about building community. As Farm Bureau celebrates its 1 00th anniversary a nd Nationwide approaches its own centennial, our two organizations are no less committed to each other and to our shared values. That said, the world around us has changed. The insurance and financial products marketplace, regulatory requirements, consumer expectations, technology and dozens of other influences have evolved in ways that required both our organizations to rethink and reshape how we partner going forward. The planning process began years ago and is now coming into practice. Some of the changes are significant, as are the structural changes your Farm Bureau board and I have implemented to ensure our future success. Nationwide, too, has stepped up to help with the transition. The exciting part though, is what comes next. The Farm Bureau/Nationwide partnership of the future is about helping each other prosper. What’s good for our members is also good for their businesses. Already, by working together we’re finding answers for your problems. For example,
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for the growing agritourism industry, where folks visit farms to pet animals, get lost in a corn maze or pick their own produce, Farm Bureau helped pass new liability laws while Nationwide created insurance coverage specific to the unique needs of host farmers. Other members, who told us of their need for complicated coverage for multiple aspects of their operations, now have farm certified agents, developed by Nationwide to address complex needs. And be sure to read what Nationwide did for Medina County Farm Bureau members Mike and Patti Boyert, who faced difficult questions about passing the operation on to future generations. As a long-time Farm Bureau member, I’ve experienced the value of the close ties between county Farm Bureaus and their local Nationwide friends. As a policy holder, I appreciate the attentive service of my agent. I’m proud to include among my friends seven past Ohio Farm Bureau officers and trustees, who make up nearly half of Nationwide’s board of directors including its board chairman. And as your Farm Bureau executive, I have the privilege of working closely with Nationwide executives on a frequent and regular basis. In a recent Columbus CEO article, retiring Nationwide CEO Steve Rasmussen talked about the beginnings of what would become Nationwide: “The profits weren’t necessarily the motivation. This was how do we take those dollars and … build things like tractor factories and a lot of other things (that make the company) a cultural hub of helping people.” Nationwide remains “very close to nine (state) Farm Bureaus, and those agricultural roots are real, and they still exist, and we value that…” We value it, too.
Feeding animals sustains steady growth
Paul Kalmbach Jr. and Paul Kalmbach Sr., have kept innovation at the forefront of their family feed business in Upper Sandusky.
By | Ty Higgins POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU JULY 30, 2019
for Kalmbach Feeds
WHEN IT COMES to helping our customers, we are only limited by our own imagination.” That is the philosophy that Paul Kalmbach, president of Kalmbach Feeds, ingrains in each and every member of his team. That imagination, whether it be used for finding solutions for customers or finding new ways to help the business grow and thrive, has benefited the Upper Sandusky animal nutrition company over the years. The Kalmbachs are long-time Farm Bureau members and the company is a group member of Ohio Farm Bureau. (Photo 2, B&W) Since its inception as a feed mill in 1963, Kalmbach Feeds has grown into a multimilliondollar business serving customers across the Midwest. Kalmbach Feeds’ trucks are a familiar sight as they traverse up and down the highways in rural Ohio, delivering bulk feed to livestock farms in the region. Kalmbach Feeds’ pet and livestock food is also sold at retail outlets throughout the state. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree for Kalmbach whose father, Milton, had the same
ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit when he started the company over a half century ago. “My parents never fought (but) when my dad told my mom what he had in mind about starting a feed business, they had a fight,” Kalmbach recalled. “I remember my dad retreating to the basement and I followed shortly behind and offered him some of the money I had earned as a kid, which totaled about $106. He looked at me and said, ‘Son, I need all of your money.’” It quickly became a sink or swim situation for the elder Kalmbach as he was relieved of his duties by his current employer after they read in the paper that he had taken out a Small Business Administration loan. Shortly after that, Kalmbach was notified that the government had run out of money and his loan could no longer be funded. It took some convincing, but after a visit with the president of the local bank, Kalmbach was loaned $20,000 to start what is now a thriving feed business in northwest Ohio. KALMBACH continues on pg. 14 harvest
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KALMBACH continued from pg. 13
Changes years
over
the but how they are blended and proportioned may
There are many aspects of the company that Milton Kalmbach wouldn’t recognize today. From the state-of-the-art packaging facility to the 18-story tall feed plant to the line of companion animal feed that Kalmbach now offers, there have been many upgrades ABOVE: State-of-the-art technolto the company’s ogy and product research is part original business of the Kalmbach’s heritage. model. Thinking about the future, and Kalmbach Feeds’ role in it, is what keeps Paul going. Kalmbach sells various kinds of feed for various types of animals — from dairy cows, horses and pigs and chickens to deer, exotic animals, rabbits, goats and sheep and even wild birds. As their customer base expanded, the products the company made available did as well. “As we evolved from a direct-to-producer business to working with dealers, we noticed that our national competitors had a complete offering to service the commercial producer while also displaying products that serviced the companion animal,” said Jeff Neal, the company’s vice president of sales and marketing. “We knew that, if we wanted to continue to grow and service our customers, we had to be able to diversify and supply the products that they needed.” That adjustment of Kalmbach Feeds’ business model, from a bulk livestock feed provider to also selling feed and companion animal food in a bag, has led to some fundamental changes — in addition to the added scrutiny of consumers expecting the highest quality with every scoop of kibble that goes into the bowl. “The rigor that you have to have in place for the level of quality control to satisfy the consumer is different on that level,” Neal said.
be a little different. In either case, the safety and nutrition facets of the industry are an everchanging aspect that the company works to stay ahead of. “We are always researching ways to improve our product line, whether it’s new ingredients, new sources or new ideas in nutrition,” said Andy Bishop, Kalmbach Feeds’ vice president of operations. “The Food Safety Modernization Act and the focus by the end user on the safety of our products has been a huge part of our progress over the years.” Kalmbach Feeds has also responded to the organic market by developing certified organic products for this sector. Business adaptations like this are not small undertakings. The entire inner workings of feed processing had to be adapted, such as dedicating equipment, providing documentation and undergoing even more inspections required for the certification. “As the end consumer continues to embrace organic options, we will do the same,” Bishop said.
The next generation
That attention to the end user means that, for as much that has changed for Kalmbach Feeds over the past 56 years, more changes are sure to come. That is where the other Paul Kalmbach comes into the fold, as the third generation begins to make its mark on the family brand. “People often ask me what I lose sleep over and I say that when you walk into a situation like this your first thought is ‘Wow. Don’t screw this up,’” said Paul Kalmbach Jr., who is currently the company’s chief learning officer. “I don’t think you can live your life that way but it is something that I am very cognizant of. I definitely have a responsibility not only to the legacy of my grandfather and father, but also the legacy of the amazing people who have worked here to keep the forward momentum that this company has going for it.” Along with a renewed enthusiasm and willingness to learn, the junior Kalmbach also brings with him an understanding of what is important to a younger consumer market. “I think my generation is different. We ask different questions, we have Safety and nutrition different expectations and we grew up in a different Many ingredients that pass the test for fido are age,” he said. “So a big part of my job will be to also used to nourish larger animals on the farm, help our organization transition so that we can
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meet the needs of the modern consumer.” That means continuous research, which is a key component to the Kalmbach Feeds business model. Much of that research is being done on Kalmbachowned farms and in cooperation with some of their customers. The company also ABOVE: The most common anicollaborates with mals that Kalmbach Feeds caters to do to are cows, horses, chickens and universities research when pigs. You can also add companthat option is most ion animals like dogs, cats and effective. guinea pigs to the list. “We believe that in the next 20 years, there will be more advancement in nutritional discoveries than in the previous 100. Therefore, we must be on the cutting edge of research,” Paul Kalmbach, Sr. said. “We have been extremely effective with our results and this has been a significant reason for our success over the years. Research will be a real driver of our growth for years to come.” For Paul Sr., there is reason for plenty of optimism for the nation’s overall food sector. “People are more interested in their food and the food for their animals than they have ever been and that means more opportunities for us on this side of food production to answer those questions and concerns,” he said. “This is also the chance for us to evaluate the customers’ needs, desires and aspirations and figure out how can we meet them all. That is what we have to do.” A task that seems relatively easy, when you are only limited by your own imagination.
Because it has a lower energy content than diesel or gasoline, it requires being compressed in order to efficiently operate vehicles. Kalmbach Clean Fuels was the first public CNG station in rural Ohio. The fast-fill station allows two vehicles to fuel simultaneously, via fueling dispensers that function similar to standard diesel fuel pumps. The station provides 24-hour, on-demand fueling by customers using standard fueling cards or major credit cards.
What is in those Kalmbach Feeds tanks?
Anyone who drives around Ohio frequently has seen the bright red semitrailers hauling the silver tankers enblazened with the Kalmbach Feeds logo. Those trucks can be seen in every county in the state and beyond. Each tanker can contain up to eight different types of feeds, divided by compartments, and that feed is typically delivered to farms that specialize in all types of livestock, from cattle to horses and pigs to poultry. Customers of Kalmbach Feeds often compare Kalmbach Feeds drivers to the United States Postal Service, because come wind, rain, sleet or snow, deliveries are made in any condition all year long.
There are not many compressed natural gas (CNG) filling stations in Ohio, but one of them is located in Upper Sandusky. That station is part of Kalmbach Clean Fuels, LLC, and supports Kalmbach Feeds’ CNG-powered feed distribution trucks. Strategically located near the intersection of U.S. 30 and U.S. 23, the station allows other CNG fleets and individual vehicle owners to take advantage of the benefits of the clean-burning, domestically produced fuel. Natural gas for vehicles is just like the gas that is used to provide heat to homes and businesses.
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Cultivating Safe Farm Operations
By | Joe Corneley SENIOR DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS OHIO FARM BUREAU POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU
An e-Learning Safety Series Program
Vision Statement: Creating a culture of farm safety to eliminate incidents in Ohio’s agricultural community. Program Overview
In partnership with Ohio State University College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Science’s Ag Safety and Health Program, and Nationwide, Ohio Farm Bureau’s Cultivating Safe Farm Operations eLearning safety series is an interactive online education program. Created with three initial modules, the series was developed to be engaging and accessible to a broad audience of farmers, part time, full time and youth farm workers. Each of the three initial modules will take learners about 40 minutes to complete, and cover several basic agricultural risks. Each module integrates an assessment into the online platform to assure basic comprehension and help cultivate on-farm behavior modification. To access the program modules, prospective learners must create an account in Farm Bureau University. The platform is provided in partnership with American Farm Bureau Federation, and includes additional self directed learning opportunities.
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Course Descriptions
• Ag Safety 101: Farming is one of the most dangerous industries in the United States. In this module, we lay the groundwork for you to begin building a culture of safety on your farming operation and reduce the number of incidents in the industry. And learners will build comfort in the online learning environment. • Tractor and Roadway Safety: Too many of us know someone involved in a serious tractor or roadway incident. In this module, learners will learn the safety fundamentals of tractors, power take offs (PTO’s) and ag roadway use. We will review hazards and strategies you can use on your operation and in your day to day activities to reduce your incident risk. • Equipment and Machinery Safety: Farmers love machines and equipment. But each tool we use has an associated risk. In this module, we deconstruct the risks associated in farm equipment to prepare you to keep the people on your farm safe.
Workers Compensation Safety Instructions
• Farm Strategies on Safety (Farm S.O.S.). OSU’s developed ag safety education programming. Used as the foundational content for the eLearning OFB Ag Safety Series, these resources and programs are available upon request from OSU’s Ag Safety team. • OSU Ag Safety. OSU’s ag safety resources landing page. The first location to find information on AgrAbility, Grain C.A.R.T. demo and a number of other valuable farm safety resources. • Nationwide Tips on Creating a Culture of Safety. Suggestions from the industry leader on farm safety on how to create a culture of farm safety on your operation. • CompManagement Resources Page. A link to Ohio Farm Bureau’s Workers’ Compensation group rating program service provider resources page.
Members enrolled in Ohio Farm Bureau’s Workers’ Compensation Group Rating program are required to complete training (min two hrs) each year. To qualify this training for the program, additional action is required. To qualify this program, after completion of the three courses you can print your certificate by logging into Farm Bureau University and clicking on the Reports tab. There you will find the name of the program and an option to “Print Certificate”. This will initiate a download of the certificate in PDF form. Then simply send a copy of the certificate and your member id number via email to agsafety@ofbf.org. Should you have questions please contact agsafety@ofbf.org or your county Farm Bureau. Questions Questions on the Cultivating Safe Farm Operations eLearning program should be directed Additional Resource Material • Emergency Preparedness. Use these resources to agsafety@ofbf.org or by calling614-246-8215. The Cultivating Safe Farm Operations eLearning from Nationwide to help develop an emergency program is sponsored by Nationwide Insurance, The preparedness plan. From wind to fire to flooding, College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental every operation should develop a plan and be Sciences at The Ohio State University, and Ohio ready to execute during an emergency. Farm Bureau.
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17 Selected for AgriPOWER,
Press Release The Ohio Farm Bureau
Ohio Farm Bureau’s ELITE Training Program
Seventeen farmers and Seventeen farmers and den of Wilmington, Kayla Miller of Archbold, Jared agribusiness professionals have been selected to participate in Ohio Farm Bureau’s 2019-2020 AgriPOWER Institute. The goal of the elite, yearlong training program is to help participants become community leaders and advocates for agriculture. During the program, participants will attend multiple sessions to learn about public policy matters important to their communities as well as the state of Ohio, nation and world. Class XI members are John Bolte of Tiffin, Jon Brookbank of North Ridgeville, Ashley Brucker of Columbus, Lauren Fehlan of Troy, Kelli Hartman of Wilmington, Josh Ison of Moscow, Kenzie Johnston of Richwood, Richard Maxwell of Glenford, Matt McFad-
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Persinger of Washington Court House,Ashley Phillips of Warsaw, Devin Trout of Columbus, Vince Untied of Newark, Vicki Vance of Gambier, Kevin Ward of Upper Sandusky and Emmalee Wince of Salem. Throughout the year, Class XI participants will develop important skills necessary to become effective leaders and advocates, including spokesperson and media training, etiquette training, social networking, communications and more. One of the sessions will take place in Washington, D.C. to give participants a better understanding of national and global issues and another out of state so they can learn about the differences and similarities in agriculture from state to state.
During the program, participants will attend multiple sessions to learn about public policy matters important to their communities as well as the state of Ohio, nation and world. “For more than 10 years, AgriPOWER has helped develop passionate and influential leaders who work hard to improve and preserve both agriculture and their local communities,” said Melinda Witten, AgriPOWER director. Partnering with Ohio Farm Bureau on AgriPOWER Class XI are American Farmland Trust, Cargill, OSU Extension Delaware County, Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, Ohio Soybean Council, members of AgriPOWER Class X, Southern Ohio Ag and Community Development Fund and Farm Bureaus in Clinton, Coshocton, DelewareDeleware,,in Clinton, Coshocton, Delaware, Fayette,Franklin, Fulton and Knox counties. For additional information about AgriPOWER, visit ofb.ag/agripower. Questions should be directed to Joe Cornely, 614-246-8230.
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Hemp Legislation Passes:
By | Kelli Milligan Stammen PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR, OHIO FARM BUREAU POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU
GROWING HEMP in Ohio got a big push from the state legislature July 17 as the General Assembly sent Senate Bill 57 to Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk for his signature. SB 57 creates a hemp cultivator license as well as a hemp processing license program to be administered by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. The House voted 88-3 to pass the hemp legalization bill. The House also voted to include an emergency clause, which was needed in part so farmers could plant hemp as soon as possible.
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rules are next The Senate agreed to the bill and the emergency clause and overwhelmingly passed the hemp legislation as well. Before the hemp program can be fully operational in Ohio, rules still need to be developed by the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the state program sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its approval. However, this legislation is a positive step forward. “Ohio Farm Bureau views hemp production in Ohio as a good opportunity for farmers to diversify
“We know that the hemp industry is a growing industry where there is a lot of opportunity for farmers to grow their businesses, literally and figuratively. We hope that many people take advantage of it.” Emilia Sykes | House Minority Leader (D-Akron) is a lot of opportunity for farmers to grow their businesses, literally and figuratively. We hope that many people take advantage of it.”
Hemp or marijuana
Hemp, now legal in Ohio, and its illegal cousin marijuana are species of cannabis, but they have different properties. Marijuana contains much more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than hemp. THC is the part of a cannabis plant that can cause a psychoactive effect in certain concentrations, but hemp plants generally do not contain enough THC to produce a “high” and its properties can be used in a large variety of products.
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their crop options, and we look forward to working with Ohio Department of Agriculture on the new program,” said Tony Seegers, OFBF director of state policy. Rep. Kyle Koehler (R-Springfield) told Hannah News Service that hemp could be a huge cash crop for Ohio farmers and it grows almost anywhere using little or no fertilizer. He also noted its wide range of uses, including for food, clothing, nutritional supplements, manufacturing and paper. When voting for the legislation, several lawmakers noted that the significant challenges farmers have faced in the past year. “It’s been a terrible year with the tariffs that have been added from the federal government, as well as the rain that’s been unpredictable,” House Minority Leader Emilia Sykes (D-Akron) told Hannah News Service. “We know that the hemp industry is a growing industry where there harvest
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Ag Innovation Challenge to award
By | Lynn Snyder senior communications director ohio farm bureau
STARTUP FUNDS
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ABOVE: Steven Brockshus, founder of FarmlandFinder and 2019 Farm Bureau Entrepreneur of the Year, competing live at the 2019 AFBF Annual Convention. Photo credit: American Farm Bureau Federation
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THE AMERICAN Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, has opened online applications for the 2020 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. In its sixth year, the Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge is a national business competition for U.S. food and agriculture startups. Entrepreneurs will compete for $145,000 in startup funds. Launched in 2015 as the first national competition focused exclusively on rural entrepreneurs, the competition provides an opportunity for U.S. startups to showcase business innovations in food and agriculture. Startup funds for the challenge are provided by sponsors Farm Credit, John Deere, Bayer Crop Science, Farm Bureau Bank, Country Financial and Farm Bureau Financial Services. To apply for the 2020 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge, competitors can apply online by Sept. 30, 2019 at midnight. “It takes faith, courage and creativity to start a business,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Rural entrepreneurs face a number of additional
“We’re very interested to see how entrepreneurs working in food and agriculture will use startup funds provided by the Challenge to take their businesses to the next level.” ZIPPY DUVALL | PRESIDENT, AMERICAN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION challenges compared to their urban counterparts. yogurts, cheeses and processed meats, These include limited access to broadband, high wineries, breweries, cideries and transportation costs and a lack of access to distilleries business networks. We’re very interested to see how entrepreneurs working in food and agriculture Entrepreneurs must be Farm Bureau members will use startup funds provided by the Challenge to qualify as a top-10 semi-finalist. Applicants to take their businesses to the next level.” who are not Farm Bureau members can join Ohio Farm Bureau. Detailed eligibility guidelines, the Timeline competition timeline, videos and profiles of past Ten semi-finalist teams will be announced Nov. Challenge winners are available by visiting https:// 5 and awarded $10,000 each. All 10 semi-finalist www.fb.org/events/afbf-annual-convention/agteams will travel to AFBF’s Annual Convention, in innovation-challenge . Austin, Texas, in January 2020, with all expenses paid, to compete in a live competition to be the Farm Bureau Entrepreneur of the Year. The 10 teams will compete in Austin to advance to the final round where four teams will receive an additional $5,000 and compete live on stage in front of Farm Bureau members, investors and industry representatives.
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OHIO FSA REQUESTS
Like so many counties in Ohio and in other farming states, Fulton County Ohio was inundated with heavy spring and summer rains, as shown in this June 2019 photo.
DISASTER DECLARATIONS
By | Ty Higgins POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU JUNE, 2019
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THE LATEST progress numbers for Ohio show only half of the state’s corn planted and just over 30% of soybeans sowed. Although those figures lag behind every other corn and soybean growing state in the U.S., there are parts of Ohio that are well behind the state averages. After meeting with farmers in the most impacted areas of the state and after collecting cropping data, gathering planting history and taking photos of the wide-ranging acres of unplanted fields, Ohio FSA has officially requested USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to make Disaster Declarations for
“Often Disaster Declarations aren’t even considered until harvest time to see just how the planting and growing season transpired. Obviously you won’t have a crop if you can’t get the seeds planted, and that is the case for many of our members.” – JACK IRVIN | senior director of state and national affairs, Ohio Farm Bureau
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Fulton, Henry and Lucas counties. “This development speaks to how serious of a situation were are seeing with the lack of planting progress in northwest Ohio,” said Jack Irvin, senior director of state and national affairs with Ohio Farm Bureau. “Often Disaster Declarations aren’t even considered until harvest time to see just how the planting and growing season transpired. Obviously you won’t have a crop if you can’t get the seeds planted, and that is the case for many of our members.” If Secretary Perdue grants the Disaster Declarations, any contiguous counties to Fulton, Henry and Lucas also would be included. How soon those declarations could be made is still uncertain.
Many other county FSA offices in impacted areas have begun the process of gathering information and that may lead the list of Disaster Declaration requests to grow. “Those requests start from the county level and are made to the state, the state then sends requests to USDA and then Secretary Perdue will make the final determination based on the information he receives,” Irvin said. “That final step has yet to be taken for Fulton, Henry and Lucas counties, and we are pressing the secretary to act quickly and decisively on those determinations.” Ohio Farm Bureau is strongly requesting farmers who are having difficulty planting their 2019 crops DECLARATIONS continues on pg. 28
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DECLARATIONS continued from pg. 27 share their situation with the county FSA office as soon as possible. The information provided will assist them in determining if a Disaster Declaration request would be applicable for that county. “If there was ever a time to get to know your county FSA office, now is the time,” said Leonard Hubert, state executive director for the USDA Ohio Farm Service Agency. If and when a Disaster Declaration is granted for counties suffering from the impacts of heavy rainfall during the planting season, that doesn’t mean that assistance funding is certain. According to the USDA, it is generally true that producers
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with qualifying losses in a Secretarial Disaster Declaration area will be eligible for disaster relief assistance. However, there is a finite amount of money set aside from the latest disaster package, and there is no guarantee that funds will reach the areas of Ohio that have been affected. Listen now to our latest podcast on this topic. Beginning an open dialogue with your county FSA office is crucial. They can walk you through existing disaster-related programs they offer (listed below), as well as options that may be available to producers who fear a forage shortage later this year, as emergency haying and grazing is granted through a separate process. Ohio Farm Bureau will continue to get accurate, up-to-date information to members. Follow us on our social media platforms and visit ofbf.org for the latest details.
Update: Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine sent a letter June 14 to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue requesting a USDA Secretarial disaster designation for Ohio amid heavy rainfall impacting Ohio farmers. Update June 20: Ohio farmers who took the prevent plant option because they couldn’t plant their fields could see some relief if Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue answers requests from Senators Brown and Portman, and Ohio’s U.S. House delegation to raise prevented planting payment rates from 55 percent to 90 percent. The 16-member House delegation, including Democrats and Republicans, also asked Perdue to remember the Ohio farmers when doling out more than $3 billion of disaster money. We thank them for realizing the short and long-term impacts this extremely challenging spring planting season will have on our members across Ohio. Here is the formally signed letter from the Ohio congressional delegation.
Existing disaster-related programs • Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) – FarmRaised Fish Assistance; • Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) – Honeybee Assistance; • Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) – Livestock Assistance; • Emergency Conservation Program (ECP); • Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP); • Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program for 2015 and Subsequent Years; • Tree Assistance Program (TAP) and • Farm Loan Program
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Ohio Farm Bureau, partners purchase
By | Pat Petzel OHIO FARM BUREAU Posted August 5, 2019
grand champion market barrow
THE OHIO State Fair Sale of Champions livestock pact on all young exhibitors here at the Fair, whether
auction Aug. 4, 2019 showcased Ohio’s premium livestock, premier Junior Fair exhibitors and generous supporters. On the sale bill were grand champion and reserve champion market beef, market barrows and market lambs, as well as grand champion market goat, grand champion and reserve champion market chickens, grand champion market turkey and a block of Swiss cheese to represent the seven dairy champions. In full, the livestock was auctioned for a total of $328,000. Ohio Farm Bureau and partners Bob Evans Farms, Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association, Event Marketing Strategies, and Tim and Glenda Huffman and family purchased the grand champion market barrow, exhibited by Elijah Keplinger, from Clark County. A high point of the Junior Fair program, the Sale of Champions was established in 1968 and showcases the animals that are selected as the premium entry in their species. This year’s sale broke four records: reserve grand champion market beef, reserve grand champion market barrow, reserve grand champion market lamb and grand champion market turkey. “Our supportive buyers not only help these individual exhibitors, but also support the thousands of youth exhibiting each year through the Fair’s Youth Reserve Program,” said Ohio State Fair General Manager Virgil Strickler. “These buyers make a huge im-
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they are participating in the All-Ohio State Fair Band and Youth Choir, a sewing competition, or exhibiting their animals. Today, the buyers funded $239,500 for the Youth Reserve Program to be spread among our youth.” Established in 1995, the Youth Reserve Program’s was developed to reward junior exhibitors who participate in the Ohio State Fair. Funds for the program come from the dollars received over a cap that is placed on the amount an exhibitor can receive from the Sale of Champions. The funds from the program are distributed among carcass contests, scholarships, outstanding market exhibitor program, outstanding breeding exhibitor program, showmanship, skillathons, 4-H and FFA. Prior to the 2019 Ohio State Fair’s opening, the Youth Reserve Program had awarded $3,533,315 to approximately 40,000 youth exhibitors since its inception. “The Sale of Champions celebrates the hard work and dedication of the Junior Fair livestock exhibitors, whose efforts have led up to this moment,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “It’s a day they will remember their entire lives. I’d like to offer a sincere thank you to the many generous buyers who support not only these champions but junior exhibitors of the future who benefit from funds raised today for the Youth Reserve Program.”
FOREIGN OWNERSHIP
Ohio Farm Bureau Staff POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU July 16, 2019
AS 2020 presidential candidates jockey for position, interesting issues can arise and become a national topic of conversation seemingly overnight. So was the case when potential 2020 Democratic nominee Elizabeth Warren spoke in Iowa about foreign companies buying American farmland. Suddenly Ty Higgins, Ohio Farm Bureau’s director of media relations, started receiving phone calls on a topic not related to water, trade or a wet spring for Ohio farmers. Higgins told National Public Radio in a May interview that “once a foreign entity buys up however many acres they want, Americans might never be able to secure that land again. So, once we lose it, we may lose it for good.” In Ohio, about half a million acres of farmland are owned by foreign investors — with Germany and the Netherlands leading in most land bought.
OF OHIO FARMLAND China is another significant investor. Higgins noted there is no federal restriction on foreign farmland purchases, so it is up to each individual state to come up with its own regulations. For example, it is restricted in Iowa, where no farmland is owned by foreign investors, whereas Higgins said in Texas it is a “free for all.” In Ohio, there is voluntary registration by the foreign entity with the state, but nothing prohibiting those overseas from purchasing farmland. The loss of farmland itself is of particular concern, Higgins said. “Every acre of productive farmland that is converted over to something other than agriculture is an acre of land that no longer produces food,” causing a ripple effect in the state’s economy and a potential hardship on rural communities. Higgins comments with NPRalso were later included in a story done by Newsweek.
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Experts Weigh In As Trade Aid Muddies
By | Ty Higgins MEDIA RELATIONS director, OHIO FARM BUREAU POSTED BY OHIO FARM BUREAU MAY 30, 2019
LATE PLANTING DECISIONS
THE 2019 Splanting season has been a challenge for Ohio farmers, as over-saturated soils have stalled corn and soybean planters for most of the month of May. Adding to the frustration of not getting the crop in the ground is the uncertainty of what decisions need to be made in order for farmers to have the least damaging financial impact due to negative situations – including delayed planting and trade wars. Crop insurance final planting dates are fast approaching and one of the options farmers have is to take Prevent Plant for acres they haven’t been able to sow. This type of claim is part of a Revenue Protection or Yield Protection crop insurance policy. “On the most common policy for corn, the claims adjuster will look at your guarantee and will pay out 55% of that guarantee as your prevent plant pay-
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ment,” said Jason Williamson, an agent with Williamson Insurance in northwest Ohio. “For soybeans, 60% of your guarantee is included in the policy.” Williamson said the term ‘final planting date,’ which is June 5 for corn and June 20 for soybeans, can be misleading. “Those timelines are the final plant dates for full coverage,” Williamson said. “Farmers can continue to plant corn well after June 5th because there is a 20day late planting period for corn and corn planted in that time frame can be insured, but your guarantee will go down 1% per day after June 5th.” Other Prevent Plant options include: • Not planting a crop and receiving a prevent ed planting payment, • Planting the acreage to another crop after the late planting period ends and receiving a
reduced prevented planting payment, or • Planting a cover crop and receiving a full prevented planting payment, provided that the cover crop is not hayed or grazed before Nov. 1 or otherwise harvested at any time. Adding to the complexities is a new round of Market Facilitation Program payments recently announced by the Trump administration to offset losses being felt in farm country due to trade woes with China. Under this trade aid, producers of alfalfa hay, barley, corn, oats, sorghum, soybeans, wheat and a long list of other commodities will receive a payment based on a single county rate multiplied by a farm’s total plantings to those crops in aggregate in 2019. Those per acre payments are not dependent on which of those crops are planted in 2019. “While the administration was very sensitive about not impacting planting decisions between the commodities, they did create some more uncertainty because we have producers that might have been considering Prevent Plant that are now saying that they need to plant a crop to get a payment,” said Ben Brown, manager of Ohio State’s Farm Management Program. “It’s like that old saying ’one in the hand, two in the bush.’ The Prevent Plant is the one in the hand as producers know what the payment is going to be based on the coverage level and historical data, but we are sitting here wondering what the trade aid payment is going to be.” Now, back to which option, Prevent Plant or MFP payments, would offer the most beneficial outcome to an individual farmer? There is no clear cut answer, but according to USDA, it does have to be one or the other. So, how does a farmer know if planting corn late into June will be the right choice? “There are some parcels of land in parts of the state that respond differently but agronomists will tell you that every day that passes takes a yield hit from the full potential. We have a decent idea of how well corn can produce in a season but the unknown factor of weather adds to the challenges of a later planted corn crop,” Brown said. “The other thing to take into consideration is that if we start to see large acres of corn come out of production due to Prevent Plant we are going to see some increases in corn price and that has already taken place. The reason I bring this up is because most producers in Ohio have a revenue crop insurance plan that takes into account the harvest price. So, if we come to October and we have really high corn prices, that will increase the revenue guarantee for the crop insurance program. Yield is important but in a case like this year, price will be important as well.” Bringing the trade aid package into the conversation is adding confusion to an already complicated late planting season. “The biggest misconception that I have heard over
and over is that the government is going to bump up Prevent Plant payments through the market facilitation programs to 70% or 90% and that is completely inaccurate,” Williamson said. “It is possible that something might come through the disaster assistance bill, but we won’t know that for a long time and nothing like that is set in stone.” The $19.1 billion disaster aid bill passed the Senate but has been stymied by the House until Congress is back in session in early June. Putting politics, trade disputes and disaster aid aside, farmers have one very heavy thought on their minds. They want to do what they are suppose to do this time of year and get their crops planted. “I have talked with countless farmers that see Prevent Plant as a very last resort because they do not want to let any field set idle,” Williamson said. “It is a very frustrating topic of conversation and farmers are just getting ticked off that they have to talk about it. They won’t give up and if a crop can go in the ground I am convinced that farmers will do everything they can to make it happen, if Mother Nature will give them a break.” The answers to all of these questions depends largely on the current situation of the farm, and each producer should visit with their crop insurance specialist to find a suitable solution.
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MYTHBUSTERS:
By | Joe Corneley SENIOR DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS OHIO FARM BUREAU
Environmental Working Group
A REPORT from the Environmental Working Group has generated some ill-informed newspaper editorials that call for a crackdown on livestock farmers. It also serves to demonstrate the challenge of getting agriculture’s views in front of the public. The report is headlined “Manure from unregulated factory farms fuels Lake Erie’s toxic algae blooms.” EWG calls for all Ohio livestock farms to be required to obtain permits to operate. EWG is a well-established, Washington, D.C. activist organization funded by the legacy fortunes of Ted Turner, Walmart, Hewlett-Packard and others. They are experts at creating controversies the media deem newsworthy.
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Here’s how it happens:
News reporters, trained and expected to post stories immediately, review the report then often call Farm Bureau for reaction to the accusations and conclusions. While EWG has spent months selecting and massaging data to shape its story and fine-tune its talking points, agriculture is asked to provide counter arguments within hours, sometimes minutes. The result can be news stories that are unbalanced or incomplete. The situation is worsened because editorial boards often rely on what their news desks publish. They form and write opinions without the benefit of all the facts. Following the initial round of news and opinion
As we’ve done with the dozens of media who’ve visited the demo farms, we’ll continue to host news reporters who share stories about agriculture’s good work. We’ll go to the editorial boards and correct common misperceptions. on the EWG report, Farm Bureau reached out to misperceptions. Farmers are stepping up to protect water quality, two leading editorial boards to invite them to and Farm Bureau will make sure the media and the the Blanchard River Demonstration Farms where public sees that. they could learn for themselves the complex challenges and solutions to protecting water quality. One editor lamented that they didn’t have Joe Corneley is senior time. Another simply didn’t return our call. director, corporate Here are a few things the editorial writers and communications at Ohio the public should know about EWG’s misleading Farm Bureau. conclusions:
Existing does not equal guilt
EWG’s premise is because there are more livestock buildings, there’s more manure pollution. The deception is that counting buildings does not account for effective management plans that result in safe application.
Unpermitted does not equal unregulated
EWG gives the impression that without a Concentrated Animal Feeding Facility permit, farmers are free to carelessly dispose of manure without regard to the environment. In reality, no farm is allowed to pollute. All are subject to Ohio’s pollution abatement law and other regulations that dictate nutrient application.
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Only permits assure safety
Despite our challenges with editorial boards, Farm Bureau will continue sharing agriculture’s tremendous story. As we’ve done with the dozens of media who’ve visited the demo farms, we’ll continue to host news reporters who share stories about agriculture’s good work. We’ll go to the editorial boards and correct common
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EWG argues that Concentrated Animal Feeding Facility standards are the only way to ensure safe manure management practices. To the contrary, many farmers operate under requirements that meet or exceed state permits. Examples include NRCS, integrators, commodity buyers, industry groups and lenders.
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OHIO FARM BUREAU NAMES
Press Release from Ohio FARM BUREAU
NEW EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT for Scholars program. She has also taken part in supply and coat drives for East Columbus Elementary School and the KPMG Family for Literacy campaign. Ohio Farm Bureau is the state’s largest and most inclusive farm and food membership organization. Its mission is working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Learn more at ofbf.org.
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COLUMBUS, OH — Patty Davis has been named executive assistant for Ohio Farm Bureau’s Strategic Partnerships department, which was recently created to develop and manage key relationships and partnerships within the farm and food sector and with businesses, educators, public officials and others. Davis has over 20 years of private sector experience as an executive administrative professional, providing executive-level support in a variety of capacities, including service at Limited Logistics and KPMG. Most recently, Davis worked at Blue & Co., LLC in the dual role of executive assistant to the firm managing director and as office manager. Davis is involved in the United Way Supplies
ABOVE: Patty Davis has been named executive assistant, strategic partnerships for Ohio Farm Bureau.
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Carroll County Fair (Carrollton)* Clark County Fair (Springfield)
Jul 16-21 Jul 19-26
Geauga County Fair (Burton)* Fulton County Fair (Wauseon)* Washington County Fair (Marietta)*
Aug 29-Sep 2 Aug 30-Sep 5 Aug 31-Sep 3
Jul 21-27 Jul 21-27 Jul 21-27 Jul 21-27 Jul 21-27 Jul 22-28 Jul 22-27 Jul 23-28 Jul 23-28 Jul 24-Aug 4 Jul 26-Aug 3 Jul 27-Aug 3
THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 1 Highland County Fair (Hillsboro) Belmont County Fair (St. Clairsville) Hardin County Fair (Kenton)* Morgan County Fair (McConnelsville)* Albany Independent Fair (Athens Co.) Wayne County Fair (Wooster)* Williams County Fair (Montpelier)*
Sep 1-7 Sep 3-8 Sep 3-8 Sep 3-7 Sep 4-8 Sep 7-12 Sep 7-14
THE WEEK OF JULY 28 Auglaize County Fair (Wapakoneta)* Greene County Fair (Xenia)* Columbiana County Fair (Lisbon)* Gallia County Fair (Gallipolis) Medina County Fair (Medina) Wood County Fair (Bowling Green)* Athens County Fair (Athens)* Champaign County Fair (Urbana)* Ross County Fair (Chillicothe)*
Jul 28-Aug 3 Jul 28-Aug 3 Jul 29-Aug 4 Jul 29-Aug 3 Jul 29-Aug 4 Jul 29-Aug 5 Aug 2-10 Aug 2-9 Aug 3-10
Delaware County Fair (Delaware)*
Sep 9-15 Sep 9-14 Sep 10-15 Sep 11-14 Sep 14-21
THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 15 Ashland County Fair (Ashland)* Tuscarawas County Fair (Dover)*
Sep 15-21 Sep 16-22
THE WEEK OF AUGUST 4 Hartford Independent Fair (Licking Co.)* Richland County Fair (Mansfield)* Holmes County Fair (Millersburg) Scioto County Fair ( Lucasville) Ashtabula County Fair (Jefferson)* Cuyahoga County Fair (Berea) * Attica Independent Fair (Seneca Co.)*
THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 22 Brown County Fair (Georgetown) Barlow Independent Fair (Washington Co.) Coshocton County Fair (Coshocton)*
Sep 23-28 Sep 26-29 Sep 27-Oct 3
Aug 4-10 Aug 4-10 Aug 5-10 Aug 5-10 Aug 6-11 Aug 6-11 Aug 6-10
THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 29 Loudonville Independent Fair (Ashland Co.)
Oct 1-5
THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 6 Fairfield County Fair (Lancaster)*
Oct 6-12
2019 OHIO AGRICULTURAL FAIR
THE WEEK OF JULY 21 Butler County Fair (Hamilton) Clermont County Fair (Owensville) Knox County Fair (Mt. Vernon)* Shelby County Fair (Sidney)* Union County Fair (Marysville)* Seneca County Fair (Tiffin)* Vinton County Fair (McArthur) Lake County Fair (Painesville)* Summit County Fair (Tallmadge)* Ohio State Fair (Columbus) Pike County Fair (Piketon)* Preble County Fair (Eaton)*
chronological schedule
Harness Racing Remaining *THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 8 County Fair (Old Washington)* September and October Guernsey Hocking County Fair (Logan) County Fair (Upper Sandusky)* Events and Dates Wyandot Bellville Independent Fair (Richland Co.)
Serving the Community for over 30 Years
Custom Door Designs Now Available! Call For Details Today! We have over 140 varieties of poultry to create your perfect flock. Choose from chicks, bantams, ducks, turkeys, geese, meat birds, game birds, guineas and we have everything you would ever need for them. Shop online www.meyerhatchery.com, call us at 888-568-9755, or visit us locally 626 State Route 89, Polk, OH 44866 AS-10698911
ORRVILLE 350 Wadsworth Rd Orrville, OH 44667 (330) 682-7000
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fall HARVEST EVENTS September 17 - 19 FARM SCIENCE REVIEW When: September 17–19, 8am–5pm Where: Molly Caren Agricultural Center 135 OH38, London, Ohio 43140 What: Farm Science Review 2019 offers the latest in farm technology and products. The three-day agricultural trade show offers educational talks and opportunities to speak oneon-one with experts from The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), which sponsors the annual event at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center near London. Now in its 57th year, the event offers the most relevant and up-to-date information to farmers on topics ranging from crop diseases to soil health. Farmers can learn how to reduce input costs and increase their efficiency at a time when both are particularly crucial. In one location, growers can visit with many experts and see the newest innovations on the market. The event draws more than 100,000 people throughout three days. It features 4,000 product lines and over 700 commercial and educational exhibits, as well as workshops and presentations delivered by CFAES experts.
21 ANNUAL MEETING: Harvest on the Farm & Taste of Champaign When: September 21, 6:30pm–9:30pm Where: Koenig Equipment 3130 E US Highway 36, Urbana, Ohio 43078 What: Join us Saturday, Sept. 21 at Koenig Equipment in Urbana for the annual meeting, Harvest on the Farm! Beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a social hour called Taste of Champaign, featuring local growers’ products. There will be an opportunity to talk to the growers and visit the cash bar featuring Ohio Farm Bureau Cover Crop beer and other local beer and wine. Dinner will start at 7:30 p.m. and after guests will enjoy entertainment by musical guests the Overdrive Band. Tickets are $10 per person. Please RSVP by Sept.
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12 by calling 937-335-1471 or email champaign@ ofbf.org.
23, 30 Foodpreneur School When: September 23, 2pm–6pm; September 30, 2pm–6pm Where: Keller Market House 134 St, Lancaster, OH 43130
S
Columbus
What: Farmers that have experienced success selling goods direct to consumers often find it difficult to reach and navigate new market channels such as restaurants, grocers and specialty stores. Foodpreneur School prepares entrepreneurs to grow their farm’s reach to new customers, increase sales and achieve new levels of profitability. “A foodpreneur is any entrepreneur selling food, like a small business owner selling jarred salsa to retailers or a farmer selling produce or meat at a farmers market,” said Hannah Scott, program manager of The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences Center for Cooperatives. “Foodpreneur is for entrepreneurs who are ready to grow, particularly by focusing on marketing and sales.” Workshop attendees will learn from industry experts and educators from Ohio State. A panel of buyers and food distributors will share their experiences accessing retail and wholesale markets. Handson, interactive activities will prompt attendees to consider special issues around the dynamic nature of consumer food preferences, best practices for packaging and labeling and strategies to manage sales. The workshop will cover additional topics including brand positioning and goal setting. “Foodpreneur is designed for producers who have been selling direct for two or more years and are looking to diversify their market beyond direct to consumer channels such as farmers markets,” said Christie Welch, direct agricultural marketing specialist for OSU Extension note. “The workshop will help producers focus on their packaging, branding, and best market channels.” Attendees will work with coaches to craft a unique blueprint to grow their food and farm business. “Foodpreneurs will leave with identified next steps that they can implement immediately upon completion of the workshop,” Welch said.
SEPTEMBER
15, 29, Nov. 12, 26 Webinar: Tax Efficient Income for Farmers & Ranchers
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When: October 15, October 29, November 12, November 26; 2–3pm
Webinar: Health Care Costs in Retirement When: September 24, 2–3pm What: Nationwide, in partnership with Ohio Farm Bureau, is excited to present a series of educational webinars designed to help Farm Bureau members better plan for and live in retirement. Health care is likely to be one of a retiree’s biggest retirement expenses. In this webinar, Nationwide shares useful information about the impact of health care costs in retirement, planning options and how to get a personalized estimate of these potential costs. Register with your local farm bureau.
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What: In this webinar, Nationwide provides insight into how taxes can impact retirement plans. Better understand common retiree concerns and how the steps taken now can help minimize the taxes paid on the investment income received in retirement. Register with your local farm bureau.
NOVEMBER 07 WEBINAR: Ag Literacy Resources When: November 7, 7pm–8pm
Bringing the Farm to You When: September 28, 10am–3pm Where: Lawrence County Fair Grounds 7755 County Road 107, Proctorville, OH 45669 What: Join Lawrence County Farm Bureau at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds for our 2nd annual agriculture event! Touch, taste and see Lawrence County agriculture with food, animals and games for all! FREE ADMISSION!
OCTOBER 05 Lorain County Beekeepers Association: 100th Anniversary
What: Sign up for this webinar from American Farm Bureau’s Foundation for Agriculture to: • Confidently use the Pillars of Ag Literacy, to save time and energy with ag literacy efforts. • Select the right Foundation tool for the job, when faced with a new ag literacy opportunity – to efficiently continue to drive the conversation forward about where food comes from. •Discover new resources and programming available from the Foundation. This webinar also serves as the culminating activity for applicants interested in joining the Foundation’s Outreach Team. Register with your local farm bureau.
When: October 5, 5pm–9pm Where: Lorain County Fairgrounds, Fairgrounds Road, Wellington, OH
23000
What: This will be a celebration for all beekeepers in the Lorain County area. Appetizers, dinner and desserts begin at 6 p.m. Meet in Building #19 at the fairgrounds. Seating is limited, and only children age 10 and older should accompany parents. RSVPby Aug. 31, 2019.
5963 Fountain Nook Rd. Apple Creek, OH 44606 WO-10663439
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