When my great-great grandfather settled in the Bowling Green, Ohio, Township in 1837, the ground bordering the Scioto River was his choice for farm land. This rich and fertile soil proved to be arable even in years of low rainfall. As he acquired more land, it was mainly in close proximity to the river.

Over the years, the lure of the river has decreased for farmers. Yes, the land is still rich and fertile. Now, however, the likelihood of yearly flooding raises doubt about the choice of farming there. The Scioto River is like the little girl of nursery rhyme fame - when it stays within its bank and it is very, very good. But when the river floods, it is horrid.

The Scioto River Conservation Reserve Program (CREP) seems to be the answer to the major problem of the river: alleviating the anxiety and financial burden of river-bottom farmers. There will be no more multi-plantings with no crops produced and harvested and there will be far less washing away of rich top soil. The farmer will be relieved of the expense for crop insurance, which requires the highest rates for this type of land. The Scioto River CREP will provide financial assistance to the landowner by enabling him to pay his real-estate taxes without borrowing money. Bankers are pleased with the CREP; they much prefer to lend money to farmers with a guaranteed income.

Wildlife will be one the foremost beneficiaries of the Scioto River CREP. They will have a safe and long-lasting haven. This land is to be protected for years to come. City people, too, will benefit from the CREP. There will be less runoff of fertilizer and chemical residues making their way into many cities primary source of water.

The Scioto River CREP is, indeed, a well-planned beneficial program for farmers and general public alike. The CREP will provide financial security for farmers and landowners, cleaner water, and much needed wildlife habitat.

Jeffrey T. Mallett

Farmer/Landowner, LaRue, Ohio

Producer Jeffrey Mallett explains the risks of farming river bottom land to Larry Adams, Ohio FSA State Executive Director. Jeffrey has enrolled the acreage in the Scioto River CREP.

Effects of erosion are apparent on this cropland being viewed by Larry Adams, Ohio State FSA Executive Director, and producer Jeffrey Mallett.

Bottomland along the Scioto River. CREP enrollment will relieve anxiety for the producer, provide habitat for wildlife, and improve drinking water for Columbus, Ohio.

Aerial view of bottomland being enrolled in Scioto River CREP.