As a farmer from Putnam County, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of protecting our soil and water. I have also helped lead discussions among growers about the need to improve and develop farming practices that promote soil health, apply proper manure management, and reduce the runoff of nutrients like phosphorus into water sources, not only here in Ohio but across the nation.
For decades, farmers like me in Northwest Ohio have tried to be good stewards of the land we tend, voluntarily implementing growing practices to reduce phosphorus runoff, using cover crops to prevent erosion, installing buffer strips along waterways to stop excess nutrients, and more.
However, in 2014, toxic algal blooms in Lake Erie helped accelerate sustainability and water quality monitoring across our state. One of the answers to the Lake Erie crisis was the development of H2Ohio, a state program that has played a crucial role in improving water quality statewide.
That’s why I am deeply concerned about the recent news coming from the statehouse in Columbus regarding a proposed 44% reduction to the program. Such a significant cut to this critical program could have serious consequences, not just for farmers but also for the general public as well.
The H2Ohio program has been an important resource for growers. By investing in soil health and sustainable farming practices, H2Ohio helps us grow crops more efficiently while also protecting the environment. As a result, many would agree that we’ve seen real improvements, particularly in our lakes, rivers, and streams.
A $120 million cut to the requested and current H2Ohio program funding would drastically weaken this progress, putting our water and farms at risk. Farmers will face higher costs to manage nutrient runoff and maintain clean water on our land without continued support for water quality initiatives.
The economic impact extends beyond farmers. H2Ohio positively influences the general public by working to prevent harmful algal blooms and making sure communities enjoy access to safe drinking water. Let me be clear: water quality and the ongoing success of H2Ohio are more than just agricultural issues; they represent a concern for the entire state.
A decrease in funding will affect everyone in Ohio, from families who depend on clean water to businesses that rely on tourism and recreation supported by our state’s lakes and rivers. This proposed cut to H2Ohio shouldn’t be considered just another budget decision. If implemented, this action could undo years of hard work and investments in protecting our natural resources. We cannot and should not take a step backward in the progress that has been made.
Farmers are not just stewards of the land; we are stewards of Ohio’s future. That’s why I believe H2Ohio is an important investment in the future of agriculture and the future of our state. I urge our lawmakers to reconsider their proposed state budget plans and restore important funding to the H2Ohio program that all growers, all communities, and our environment depend on.
Finally, I encourage every Ohioan to make their voice heard and contact their legislators to support H2Ohio, a program that ensures clean water, healthy farms, and a sustainable future for everyone.
Sincerely,
Dennis Vennekotter
Putnam County Farmer
