About Us
Ohio Soybean Association President's Message
The Ohio Soybean Association (OSA) is a grassroots membership organization that works to provide leadership for Ohio's soybean farmers in promoting effective policies and legislation to ensure a growing and profitable soybean industry in the state. OSA also works closely with the American Soybean Association (ASA), which represents the legislative interests of all U.S. soybean farmers. Through these member-supported organizations, Ohio and U.S. soybean farmers can have their voice heard in the legislative process that affects their industry.
OSA had a successful year in 2009. Perhaps the most recognizable victory was the passage of State Issue 2 to create the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board. OSA farmer-leaders and staff worked tirelessly to show voters that this board would ensure the availability of safe, locally-grown food, and sustain Ohio's family farms for generations to come. On November 3rd, Ohio voters showed that they agreed by passing Issue 2 by 64%.
Also heavily promoted by OSA, and passed by the Ohio Senate in 2009, is Senate Bill 131. Introduced by Senator Karen Gillmor (R-Tiffin), S.B. 131 would establish a BioPreferred Purchasing program for the state, giving purchasing preference to bioproducts made from renewable resources such as soybeans. This program could give a big boost to the bioproducts industry in Ohio and increase demand for our agricultural products.
But the work doesn't end there. In 2010, OSA will continue to collaborate with other agriculture groups and the legislature on the implementing legislation and seating of the 13-member Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board. Additionally, OSA leaders will be working with legislators to pass S.B. 131 as it continues to work its way through the House.
Nationally, OSA and ASA will work together on a variety of issues that affect soybean farmers, including the Biodiesel Tax Credit, Renewable Fuels Standard, Climate Change legislation and the Farm Bill.
It was your support through membership that has allowed us to be successful over this past year, and your continued membership that will ensure you have a strong voice in Columbus and Washington, D.C. I encourage all Ohio soybean farmers and industry stakeholders to join with us and become a member of OSA today!
Sincerely,
Jeff Wuebker
Ohio Soybean Association President
Darke County Soybean Farmer
