Yearly Archives: 2026
New law makes way for carbon capture and sequestration in Ohio
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has signed House Bill 170, establishing a regulatory framework for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). This key step brings Ohio closer to securing primacy over Class VI injection wells to streamline permitting for carbon storage.
Ohio’s new oil and gas law sparks debate over expedited permitting
Ohio's newly signed Senate Bill 219 streamlines oil and gas drilling, shortening permit approval times and protecting the state's well-plugging fund. While industry advocates say it boosts competitiveness, environmentalists warn of rapid fracking on public lands with less oversight.
Obituary – William T. “Bill” McKarns
William T. “Bill” McKarns, 94, of Hanoverton, Ohio, died July 14. He was known as the "father of the qualified herdbook" for Holstein dairy cattle.
Farmers, butcher discuss meat processing bottlenecks with lawmaker
Congressman Chris Deluzio heard from local farmers and butchers in western Pennsylvania about the challenges they face with meat processing. A lack of USDA-inspected butcher shops and a shortage of qualified and willing individuals to staff these shops are hindering growth for local farms.
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau president resigns
Chris Hoffman resigns as Pennsylvania Farm Bureau president after nearly four years, following board concerns over staff turnover and an internal review.
WVDA warns Parkersburg farmers of potential feed contamination after warehouse fire
After the massive Parkersburg warehouse fire, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture is advising farmers to check livestock feed for smoke and ash contamination. Ag producers and home gardeners are urged to report impacts through a new online portal as the EPA begins on-site testing for environmental safety.
Choosing fly fishing over golf did not save me any money
Former wildlife officer Jim Abrams looks back at his decision to skip golf and take up fly fishing instead. Inspired by Bing Crosby, a winter trip to an East Palestine sports shop started a lifelong passion that proved a "simple" rural hobby can still empty your wallet.
Four injection wells in Washington County shut down due to brine migration
Four injection wells in Washington County, Ohio ceased operations on July 1 and 2 due to brine migration into oil and gas production wells.
Guebert: There are no rules for little brothers
In this week's Farm and Food File, Alan Guebert shares a poignant reflection on the sudden passing of his younger brother, Perry. Following a final, lighthearted text exchange about Navy life, the loss of a sibling throws a long-standing family dynamic completely out of balance.
Growing up on the farm meant no time for boredom
From building straw tunnels to diving into the farm pond, Judith Sutherland refelcts on her rural childhood where summer meant a mix of hard work and ultimate freedom. Unlike "townie" friends who faced afternoon boredom, farm life ensured there was never a single precious moment wasted.
