Central State University soil health expert testifies in support of HB 568 before House Agriculture Committee

Dr. Sakthi Kumaran, a Research Associate Professor of Soil Science and Agronomy at Central State University, delivered expert testimony before the Ohio House Agriculture Committee, supporting HB 568, a bipartisan bill to create the Healthy Soils Task Force. Dr. Kumaran emphasized the critical need for policies promoting soil health to secure agricultural productivity, environmental resilience, and economic sustainability in Ohio.

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HB 568, sponsored by Reps. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland) and Bill Dean (R-Xenia), seeks to establish a 15-member task force comprising soil health experts, farmers, and representatives from conservation organizations. This initiative aims to address pressing soil degradation issues and develop a comprehensive action plan to improve Ohio's soil health through conservation practices, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem restoration.

Central State University’s role in soil health advocacy

Dr. Kumaran’s testimony highlighted Central State University’s vital role as one of Ohio’s two Land-Grant institutions. The University is deeply committed to advancing agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship, core pillars of its 1890 Land-Grant mission. 

“Central to the concepts of productivity and environmental responsibility is the preservation of healthy soils, which are crucial for sustaining future generations. Over the past 20 years, I have committed myself to advocating for soil health in Ohio, engaging in research, fostering partnerships with academic and governmental agencies, and actively participating in community initiatives,” Dr. Kumaran said in an interview.

Central State’s expertise has positioned it as a key resource in addressing soil health challenges. The testimony aligned with the University’s broader mission to shape Ohio's agricultural future through sustainable practices, as President Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, Ph.D., underscored.

“Central State University is proud to contribute to shaping the future of agriculture and environmental stewardship in Ohio. Dr. Kumaran’s testimony before the House Agriculture Committee underscores our commitment as a Land-Grant Institution to advancing innovative research and solutions that promote sustainable soil health,” Dr. Kuti remarked. 

Addressing legislative concerns on soil health

Dr. Kumaran stressed that Ohio faces challenges such as soil degradation, water quality issues, and climate change, which directly affect agricultural productivity. Soil health is a critical factor in mitigating these challenges. 

“For example, Gov. Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio initiative, which aims to improve water quality in the Western Lake Erie basin, relies heavily on our capacity to manage soil health effectively through the adoption of best management practices in agricultural fields,” he noted. Dr. Kumaran also pointed out the broader implications of soil health on renewable energy, including the placement of solar farms and the use of biosolids from wastewater treatment.

Dr. Kumaran’s testimony emphasized collaboration among stakeholders to ensure sustainable soil management practices. 

“Engaging farmers, researchers, and policymakers is essential for promoting soil health and supporting ecosystems,” he said. 

Legislative support for soil health

Co-sponsor Rep. Brent highlighted the urgency of this legislation. “The quality of our food, water, and air starts from our soil,” she said. “The Soil Health Taskforce will create a plan to cultivate healthier and more productive soil. The soil will save us.” 

Rep. Dean added, “Just as we nourish our bodies, so too must we nourish Ohio’s soil with healthy management practices.”

The bill’s proponents argue that maintaining soil health can help Ohio’s agricultural sector withstand extreme weather events, such as droughts and flooding, which have recently devastated southeastern farmers. During the hearing, proponents from organizations like the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association emphasized that good soil practices can improve water retention, reduce input costs, and increase crop yields, creating a stronger foundation for farmers.

Advancing Ohio’s agricultural future

HB 568 represents an opportunity for Ohio to lead in sustainable agricultural practices. The proposed task force will evaluate methods for rebuilding soil carbon, enhancing water quality, and building resilience to pests and drought. It also seeks to identify funding opportunities under federal programs, such as the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

Dr. Kumaran expressed optimism about Central State’s contribution to shaping policy. 

“I am confident this task force will incorporate insights from experts like me, and I’m proud of Central State University’s proactive stance on critical issues impacting Ohio.”

The legislation underscores Ohio’s commitment to securing its $124 billion agriculture industry while ensuring environmental sustainability for future generations.

For more information about HB 568, visit https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/135/hb568.