OEFFA News

On June 24, 2026, Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) and Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03) introduced the Organic Imports Verification Act (OIVA). The bipartisan bill would safeguard domestic organic producers and consumers from fraudulent organic imports.  By centering long-standing needs, like those voiced by organic farmers in Congresswoman Brown’s state, OIVA would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to test high-risk imports of organic feedstuffs, leveling the playing field for America’s organic producers and promoting integrity in the growing organic sector. This bill mirrors companion legislation in the Senate introduced by Senators Ricketts (NE), Smith (MN), and Scott (SC) last year. The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) endorses this…

The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) launched its annual Farm Tour Series. The 2026 series includes a number of public farm tours showcasing farms and food processors across Ohio, plus educational and social opportunities with experienced OEFFA staff. This programming opens the door for farmers, gardeners, educators, and food-conscious consumers to learn about local foods and farming firsthand. “Whether you are a farmer, gardener, or eater, OEFFA’s farm tours offer something for you,” said OEFFA Executive Director Khara Strum. “You don’t have to be an expert—or even familiar with organic farming—to enjoy these events. Joining a farm tour is an opportunity to meet the people growing your food…

The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) has named the 2026 recipients of its Stewardship and Service Awards.   Bonnie Mitsui and Melinda O’Briant of Turner Farm in Hamilton County received the Stewardship Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the cultivation of sustainable agriculture. Debra Knapke of Franklin County received the Service Award, which recognizes extraordinary service in support of sustainable agriculture. “I am honored to recognize this year’s Stewardship and Service Awards at OEFFA. In a time when resources are scarce and tensions are high, these people help remind us of what we stand for, healthy, local food produced in harmony with nature,” said OEFFA Executive Director Khara Strum.…

Registration is now open for Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association’s (OEFFA) annual conference! This educational event is now in its 47th year, bringing together farm and food advocates from across the region with educational workshops and community building. The 2026 OEFFA Conference, Finding Common Ground, will take place Friday, February 13 through Saturday, February 15, 2026, at Cherry Valley Hotel in Newark, Ohio. “We are excited to gather in community around sustainable and organic farming in February,” said OEFFA Executive Director Khara Strum. “The last year has been difficult for many and we know how uplifting gathering together can be. Our format this year will allow for greater connection…

On Monday, December 8, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the long-awaited farm aid package. The Farmer Bridge Assistance Program will provide $11 billion in one-time payments for major commodity crops, like corn, soybeans, cotton, rice, and barley, and $1 billion will be dedicated to other crops, including specialty crops like vegetables, fruits, and tree nuts. Commodity producers who go through the filing process should know commodity-specific payment rates by the end of the calendar year. There is no timeline or eligibility information available for specialty crop payments.  The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) maintains that farm aid packages should benefit all farmers, especially those who…

The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) is a community of sustainable and organic farmers, handlers, producers, and consumers across the U.S. The challenges faced by those in our network are unique to diversified and usually small- or mid-scale farms that provide healthy food to their communities.  The government shutdown, tariff negotiations, staffing changes at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and other recent events have specific implications for these farms and the local communities that benefit from their products. We have been actively connecting with individuals who want to share their stories to uplift some of the experiences of those in our community. “I do not know…

House Bill 65, the Agriculture Appreciation Act, passed the Ohio legislature on June 24, 2025, and was signed into law by Governor DeWine yesterday, on July 1. The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) and members of its Ohio Soil Health Initiative (OSHI) celebrate the passage of this bill and the opportunities that come with it.  The bill makes several specified day and week designations relating to agriculture, including recognizing the second full week of November as “Ohio Soil Health Week.” OEFFA thanks Sen. Tim Shaffer for his 2024 amendment recognizing Ohio Soil Health Week and applauds Reps. Klopfenstein and Peterson for reintroducing the bill this session. Ohio Soil Health Week celebrates…