H2Ohio Funding Coming to Fulton and Lucas Counties to Reduce Phosphorus Runoff

A state initiative to support local farmers and minimize phosphorus runoff in Ohio’s waterways is welcome news for the region, State Rep. Derek Merrin (R-Monclova) said today.

The state is making $30 million in H2Ohio funding available to farmers in Fulton, Lucas and 12 other northwest Ohio counties. The funding was part of the state budget Merrin helped pass last year.

“I appreciate the Ohio Department of Agriculture working with the farming community and local officials on this initiative,” said Merrin.

Farmers living in the eligible counties will be able to apply for funds at their local Soil and Water Conservation Districts starting on February 1.

According to the Ohio Department of Agriculture, H2Ohio will fund investments in 10 scientifically proven interventions to reduce nutrient runoff from agriculture, which is the primary cause for algal blooms in Lake Erie and elsewhere. Algal blooms can threaten drinking water and impact the health of both people and animals.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture, in partnership with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts and the Ohio Agriculture Conservation Initiative, will host informational meetings next month to outline the application process, explain the H2Ohio certification process, and answer questions for area farmers.