Inaugural Ohio Soil Health Week Nov. 10-16

From Nov. 10-16, the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA), members of its Ohio Soil Health Initiative (OSHI), and partners will celebrate the inaugural Ohio Soil Health Week.

The weeklong, statewide celebration honors and raises awareness about the importance of Ohio’s soils and those who steward them. It will include outreach, education opportunities, and events to elevate this valuable natural resource.
 
The official designation of Ohio Soil Health Week has been introduced as an amendment to House Bill 162 and is sponsored by Ohio Sen. Tim Schaffer (OH-20). This follows years of advocacy by OEFFA and OSHI to advance soil health legislation in the Ohio General Assembly, drawing inspiration from other states that have received support from their elected officials in commemorating soil’s importance with officially designated celebrations. 

“This week brings awareness to the hard work and achievements of individuals around Ohio and their contributions to Ohio’s soil health,” Sen. Schaffer said. “Celebration of that work will be every second full week in November, in honor of David Brandt, the ‘Godfather of soil health’ and Fairfield County farmer. David Brandt dedicated his time, talent, and knowledge to soil health and encouraged many others to do the same.”

The late David Brandt influenced many farmers, gardeners, researchers, and activists featured in OEFFA’s Soil Stories video series. “I wouldn’t be farming the way I am today if I hadn’t met David Brandt. Dave is a legend. He’s touched every farmer who took the time to talk to him,” said Henry Peller, OSHI member and owner of Rose Hill Farm. 

With a PhD in soil science from The Ohio State University, Peller understands how soil health is the foundation for any farm’s success. “Farming’s just going to get harder, and you layer on top of that climate change. Our only pathway is to have healthy, resilient ecosystems to soften the blow.” 
 
“Soil health matters to all of us and impacts all aspects of our lives, including our food, environment, communities, and health,” said OEFFA Grassroots Policy Organizer Lauren Hirtle. “Healthy soils are even more important during the hard times we’ve been experiencing throughout Ohio—whether it’s the drought of this summer and fall, the wet spring of 2019, or any extreme weather event in between. Healthy soils are the key to resiliency in the face of the many threats our farmers confront every day.”

OEFFA is excited to celebrate the first Ohio Soil Health Week this November. While continuing to collect stories, uplift advocates, and support people to adopt good soil health practices across the state, OEFFA and OSHI hope to see soil health legislation passed in the Ohio General Assembly.
 
To learn more about the Ohio Soil Health Week events and Soil Stories interviewees, visit ohiosoilhealthweek.com.

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