The Division of Soil and Water Conservation has the authority to establish standards for a level of management and conservation practices in farming and animal feeding operations. The purpose of these standards is to reduce pollution of waters of the state by soil sediment, animal manure and residual farm products. This authority is granted through Ohio Revised Code Chapter 939.
These regulations apply to all farming operations in Ohio, except those that are permitted through ODA’s Division of Livestock Environmental Permitting or the Ohio EPA.Enforcement of these regulations is typically performed through a complaint process. If the Division of Soil and Water Conservation receives a complaint alleging that an agricultural operation is not in compliance with these standards, then the Division will investigate. If the Division of Soil and Water Conservation determines that the agricultural operation is in violation of the law, then the Division will seek to find a cooperative solution to return the operation to compliance. ODA may require corrective actions. If these corrective actions are not completed, ODA has the authority to issue a civil penalty of up to $10,000.
ODA has entered into agreements with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) to implement these rules. These agreements give the SWCDs authority to investigate complaints, identify violations, and require corrective actions. SWCDs also assist ODA by providing landowners and farm operators' technical assistance, advice and expertise and informing them of the level of conservation necessary to comply with the rules and standards.
These regulations apply to all farming operations in Ohio, except those that are permitted through ODA’s Division of Livestock Environmental Permitting or the Ohio EPA.Enforcement of these regulations is typically performed through a complaint process. If the Division of Soil and Water Conservation receives a complaint alleging that an agricultural operation is not in compliance with these standards, then the Division will investigate. If the Division of Soil and Water Conservation determines that the agricultural operation is in violation of the law, then the Division will seek to find a cooperative solution to return the operation to compliance. ODA may require corrective actions. If these corrective actions are not completed, ODA has the authority to issue a civil penalty of up to $10,000.
ODA has entered into agreements with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) to implement these rules. These agreements give the SWCDs authority to investigate complaints, identify violations, and require corrective actions. SWCDs also assist ODA by providing landowners and farm operators' technical assistance, advice and expertise and informing them of the level of conservation necessary to comply with the rules and standards.