Jordan Haywisher kicks off the first annual roundup with Ty Higgins to review 2021's top agricultural issues.
This episode is a year-end review of agricultural issues from 2021 and a look ahead to 2022. Host Jordan Haywisher, the Ohio Farm Bureau's Director of Water Quality and Research, is joined by Ty Higgins, the organization's Senior Director of Communications and Media Relations. They aim to discuss key topics impacting Farm Bureau and the broader agricultural industry.
The conversation covers the ongoing challenges and adaptations within agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss supply chain disruptions affecting the availability of equipment parts and inputs like fertilizer. The hosts mention the significant federal spending through legislation like the American Rescue Plan Act. A major topic is the debate and legal challenges surrounding the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. They reference the 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule and anticipate new definitions from the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers. The episode also touches on Ohio's new legislation concerning water quality and nutrient management, specifically Senate Bill 1.
An interesting insight is the description of how pandemic-driven shifts in consumer food purchasing created lasting changes for some agricultural sectors. The hosts note the industry's general opposition to the proposed repeal of the 2020 WOTUS rule, viewing it as a return to broader, more uncertain federal jurisdiction. They highlight the role of organizations like the American Farm Bureau Federation in advocating against this change through legal avenues. A memorable point is the discussion of how supply chain issues forced farmers to become more resourceful and plan further ahead.
The tone is informal and conversational, resembling a professional roundtable discussion between colleagues. The style is educational, aimed at informing listeners about policy and industry trends.
This episode would appeal to Ohio farmers, agricultural professionals, and anyone interested in farm policy and commodity markets. Listeners seeking highly technical, single-topic deep dives or narrative storytelling might find it too broad.
