We champion policies that protect farmers’ rights, promote ethanol, enhance trade opportunities, and safeguard water quality. By working with policymakers, we ensure Ohio’s farmers have the tools and resources needed to thrive in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.
Our research initiatives focus on water quality, crop innovation, and renewable energy. By driving forward-thinking solutions, we empower Ohio farmers to adopt sustainable practices, improve yields, and contribute to a healthier environment for future generations.
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Meet Owen Niese, Board Member–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Owen Niese farms with his family in Richland County. As the Chair of the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program, Owen represents the interests of Ohio farmers. He oversees the strategic use of small grains checkoff funds to strengthen the state’s small grains industry. This supports research, education, and market development for export opportunities.
In addition to his role on the small grains checkoff, Owen serves as a representative for the National Wheat Growers Association (NAWG)—bringing Ohio’s voice to national discussions and helping shape policies that support wheat producers.
Besides farming, Owen operates a drainage services company—providing critical field tile and water management solutions that ensure long-term productivity for farmers across the region.
Whether he’s advocating for wheat growers, exploring sustainable farming solutions, or working the land, Owen brings curiosity, innovation, and a dedication to community to everything he does.
Meet Derek Hetrick, Board Member–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Derek is a fifth-generation farmer from Sandusky County, running a thriving operation along side his family, growing corn, soy beans, and wheat.
As a valued member of the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program Boardof Directors, Derek brings his farmer’s insight directly into board room discussions. He’s championing efforts to promote Ohio-grown wheat across global markets and seeks out new opportunities to expand its reach and value. Derek is driven by a mission to elevate Ohio wheat’s reputation, increase wheat profitability, and ensure its long-term success.
Meet Eric Richer, Board Member–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Eric Richer brings practical farm experience and agricultural education knowledge to the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program board. He grows corn, soybeans, and wheat in Fulton County.
In addition to farming, Eric works as a Field Specialist in Farm Management with OSU Extension, where he helps Ohio farmers with crop budgets, farm transitions, and agricultural finance. He has played a key role in developing tools like the “Farm On” program and frequently speaks at workshops on grain marketing, risk management, and programs for beginning farmers.
Eric is also a member of the American Society of Agronomy and has over a decade of experience as an Extension educator, as well as being a former high school agriculture teacher.
Whether it’s connecting research to the field or helping shape the future of small grains in Ohio, Eric offers thoughtful insight and a grower’s perspective to everything he does.
Meet Roger Wright, Board Member–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Roger Wright is a fifth – generation farmer in Clark County. His family farm stands as a testament to deep roots, hard work, and a dedication to continuous improvement.
As a member of the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program Board of Directors, Roger helps guide strategic investments that promote Ohio wheat, support grower education, and discover emerging market opportunities. His perspective as a hands-on grower gives voice to farmers’ needs and priorities across the state.
Roger is committed to strengthening Ohio’s small grains industry and preserving the legacy of family farms for future generations.
Meet Nick Wolford, Board Member–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Nick Wolford is a grain farmer from Pickaway County, where his focus on stewardship, innovation, and long-term sustainability flourishes. As a board member of the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program, Nick helps guide initiatives that promote farmer profit ability, market development, and consumer education.
Nick has a strong interest in farmer education, alternative uses for grain, and sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the farmer’s bottom line. He’s passionate about helping farmers adapt to a changing agricultural landscape and ensuring they havethe tools and resources to thrive.
Whether he’s trying out new practices on the farm or working to develop state wide strategies, Nick brings energy, insight, and a strong commitment to Ohio agriculture.
Meet Ray Van Horn, Board Member–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Ray Van Horn farms in Morrow County, where he grows corn, soybeans, and wheat on a second-generation operation along side his children and nephew. Ray brings practical insight and a collaborative spirit to his work on the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program Board of Directors.
Ray also serves as the Chair of the Ohio Corn & Wheat Political Action Committee and represents Ohio on the U.S. Wheat Associates Board of Directors, where he helps advocate for export opportunities and building global demand for U.S.-grown wheat. His passion foropening new markets and strengthening trade relationships is a key part of his leadership, both at the state and national levels.
Whether he’s tending crops, mentoring the next generation on the farm, or engaging ininternational conversations about wheat, Ray is committed to making sure Ohio farmers are positioned for long-term success in a changing world.
Meet Bill Schroeder, Vice Chair–Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program
Bill Schroeder is a third-generation farmer in Putnam County, where he works along side his brother and children. Deeply rooted in both family and farming, Bill brings decades of hands-on experience and multi-generational perspective to his work on the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program Board of Directors.
Bill is especially passionate about expanding export opportunities and exploring innovative new uses for Ohio-grown wheat. Whether it’s through market development or finding freshways to add value to the crop, Bill is always thinking about how to secure a stronger futurefor Ohio grain farmers.
Outside the field, Bill is active in his local parish, St. Anthony Catholic Church, where he serves as a Eucharistic Minister and is a member of the Knights of Columbus. His dedication to faith, family, and farming makes him a trusted voice on the board—and a strong advocate for Ohio’s agricultural community.