Eastern Ohio farmers face severe challenges as drought hits hard

CADIZ, Ohio — As drought conditions continue to worsen throughout the eastern part of Ohio, one industry is being hit perhaps harder than most.

After a spring that saw heavy rain hit the Ohio Valley, the exact opposite is happening now. Eastern Ohio is experiencing a drought at levels not seen since the late 1980s, which is affecting the agricultural community.

"We're in what we consider an exceptional drought now. We're in a D4, is what is classified by the U.S. Drought Monitor. And Harrison County, a little bit in Jefferson County, and then, you know, there's 22 counties total," said Representative Don Jones. "We've been having a lot of conversations with a lot of people. You know, especially a lot of livestock producers who are really struggling with feeding hay and finding hay and also having a problem with water."

 The main problem, as Jones points out, is that water sources are drying up, causing once-verdant pastures to become arid. This forces farmers to import supplies from outside.

"I know a lot of farmers in my district have been hauling water since the middle of July. A lot of them are hauling water and feeding hay. So it's a real struggle for a lot of our livestock producers and, you know, our crop farmers are hurting as well because their crops were, obviously, short of rainfall," Jones said.

Jones's main concern is that if the problem continues, sourcing water for farmers will become increasingly difficult.

"We are looking at ways to try to find other sources of water so they don't have to buy it," Jones said. "Because what happens if we don't get much rain in the next, let's say, 2 months, and our public water systems start to be compromised? We don't want that to happen, so we're actively looking at alternative ways of finding water."

Overall, as the drought continues, Jones has advice for farmers who might be struggling.

"For farmers, I think the first thing is to stay calm," Jones said. "If you need help, don't be afraid to ask. Again, go to the Farm Service Agency, get the call in, get the appointment, go sit down with those folks. See what you're eligible for, if anything."