Statewide Enrollment Open for H2Ohio Agricultural Incentive Program

COLUMBUS, Ohio – H2Ohio’s agriculture incentive program is now being offered to producers throughout the state.

Gov. Mike DeWine launched H2Ohio in 2019 to help address various threats to water quality, including harmful algal blooms caused by phosphorus runoff. 

H2Ohio’s agricultural program, which initially focused solely on farms in northwest Ohio near Lake Erie, incentivizes farmers to implement science-based, proven best management practices to prevent nutrient runoff and improve water quality.

“H2Ohio is now firmly established in northwest Ohio, giving us the opportunity to take this program to other parts of the state,” DeWine said. “We appreciate the commitment that our current H2Ohio farmers have shown to protecting Lake Erie, and we look forward to engaging more producers across Ohio on how they can contribute to cleaner water throughout the state.”

Statewide enrollment for row-crop producers who farm in Ohio’s 64 counties outside of northwest Ohio’s Western Lake Erie Basin are now open. ODA will enroll 500,000 acres into the program through May 6, with enrollment available on a first come, first served basis.

“The progress we’ve made with water quality in northwest Ohio has shown the agricultural community is dedicated to doing their part,” said Brian Baldridge, Ohio Department of Agriculture director. “Offering the same incentives to our farmers across the rest of the state ensures we are all working together to continue to protect our most valuable resource.”

To apply, farmers should contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District and provide up-to-date soil tests and information on planned crops and rotations, yield goals and planned fertilizer applications. Producers who enroll will receive support to develop and implement Voluntary Nutrient Management Plans, which encourage better use of nutrients applied.  

The Ohio Department of Agriculture works closely with county SWCDs to administer participant contracts, provide technical assistance and support producers with the implementation of best management practices. H2Ohio provides producers cost-saving benefits, such as financial and technical assistance, to implement conservation practices that are proven to improve soil health and water quality.

More information is available HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.