Thursday, January 1, 2026
A field with hemp plants growing in it.

After decades on the controlled substances list, hemp is back as a crop in Ohio. Hemp, like many new crops, comes with new challenges — including limited research. Researchers at Central State University are trying to address that, starting with a grant-funded research project on manure as a hemp fertilizer, and how it affects soil health and water quality.
People and amusement rides at a fair.

The Ohio Expositions Commission agreed to a possible 75-year lease that would give the Columbus Crew SC access to about 25 acres of state land for a new practice facility in a Jan. 28 meeting. This lease comes with a $2 million up front payment in April. That money would be a major help for the commission, after a year of cancellations and lost revenue.
farm machinery

National Farm Machinery Show and Championship Tractor Pull announced scheduled events will be postponed until Feb. 16-19, 2022.
gardening news

Two gardening experts on the national scene will come together for the 25th anniversary Garden & Landscape Symposium Feb. 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
olive oil, tomato, basil

Penn State Extension is hosting a virtual cooking class, Let's Cook at Home: Mediterranean webinar Feb. 11, 6-7 p.m.
Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and environmental and public health partners sued the EPA for refusing to strengthen air quality limits.
REAL ID banner

The Department of Homeland Security continues to urge Americans to obtain a REAL ID-compliant card or acceptable alternative.
FFA logo

Catch up on local FFA news from Utica FFA and United FFA.
Algal bloom

The ODNR announced that it will partner with the Medina County Park District to help eliminate toxic algal blooms in Chippewa Lake.
A barn and silo in the winter, with snow on the ground.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is temporarily suspending foreclosures and past-due debt collections for distressed borrowers under two FSA loan programs