Help Create a Healthy Soils Task Force in Ohio

A farmer's holding healthy soil and text encouraging support of the Healthy Soils Task Force bill

OEFFA members know that healthy soil is foundational to sustainable agriculture. While healthy soil is the basis for healthy crops, animals, and humans, there is much that can be done to support our state’s farmers in preserving this vital natural resource.

That’s why OEFFA, the Ohio Soil Health Initiative, and allies are urging decision-makers to pass House Bill 568, legislation creating a Healthy Soils Task Force to develop a comprehensive healthy soils initiative for Ohio.

In just a few minutes, you can call and/or email your Ohio Representative, letting them know you want support for this vital piece of legislation. We suggest that you share a comment with members of the Ohio House Agriculture Committee, too!

The Healthy Soils Task Force would be made up of 17 members, including farmers and representatives from environmental organizations, soil and water conservation districts, farm organizations, and sustainable agriculture organizations. Together they would work to:

Identify achievable goals and timelines for soil health improvement in Ohio;
Examine issues farmers face in accessing research, education, and technical assistance;
Explore options for financial incentives to improve soil health;
Research the contribution of livestock to soil health; and
Consult with agencies and organizations like the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Ohio State University, and the Soil Health Institute.

Email your state Representative and ask them to join Representative Juanita Brent (D-22) and Representative Bill Dean (R-71) in supporting the creation of a Healthy Soils Task Force. Be sure to personalize your message for the greatest impact.

Call your state Representative and ask them to join Representative Juanita Brent (D-12) and Representative Bill Dean (R-71) in supporting the creation of a Healthy Soils Task Force. Customize the below script to share why soil health is important.

Hi, my name is _______ and I’m a constituent/farmer/consumer in your district. Please consider supporting House Bill 568.

Healthy soils are the foundation of our food and farm system. Soil is essential to healthy crops, healthy animals, and healthy people. Representatives Juanita Brent and Bill Dean have proposed a bill that would create a Healthy Soils Task Force.

This proposed bill would be the first step toward prioritizing our soils and ensuring Ohio agriculture remains viable for future generations.

I urge your office to support House Bill 568 and make a commitment to celebrate and conserve Ohio’s most valuable natural resource.

Thank you for serving our community. Have a great day.