Farm Science Review to spotlight climate resilience as drought returns to Ohio

LONDON, Ohio - The signs across much of Ohio are becoming all too familiar for many farmers right now: fields drying too quickly, streams running low and skies withholding the steady rainfall they need.

While this year's field conditions are not yet as severe as last summer's exceptional drought, dry weather is once again testing Ohio agriculture - making the timing of the 2025 Farm Science Review especially important.

The 63rd Farm Science Review, hosted by The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), will be held Sept. 16-18 at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center in London, Ohio. The show offers access to more than 4,000 product lines and more than 180 educational sessions led by CFAES researchers and Ohio State University Extension experts.

At the three-day event, farmers will find research-based solutions to help manage drought and other weather extremes that are becoming a growing challenge across the state. From strategies for adjusting planting schedules to tools for managing pests, livestock stress and nutrient loss, CFAES will showcase its expertise in helping producers adapt.

Among those leading the discussions are Aaron Wilson, state climatologist and CFAES field specialist in agricultural weather and climate, and Greg LaBarge, agronomic systems specialist with OSU Extension, CFAES' outreach arm.

As the host of Farm Science Review, CFAES brings together researchers, Extension professionals and industry leaders to share the latest knowledge farmers need to remain resilient. This year, the urgency is underscored by the Sept. 4U.S. Drought Monitor report, showing more than 80% of Ohio in abnormally dry conditions, with nearly 2% in moderate drought.

Wilson said the sharp swings between wet and dry conditions are becoming a defining feature of Ohio's climate.

"I look at the 2024 drought followed by April-July 2025 as just the most recent in a string of events that signal a shift toward increasing risk from extreme weather in Ohio," he said. "It reminds those in the agricultural community of the value of preparedness and the need for consistent mindfulness around the management of water, nutrients and other inputs to ensure profitability and environmental sustainability on our farms."

For farmers, that preparation often begins in the spring. LaBarge said wet soils delayed planting windows in many areas, sometimes stretching into June.

"To take advantage of limited planting windows, farmers have shifted to larger equipment to cover more acres per day - though that comes with higher capital costs," he said.

Ongoing CFAES research, including the "Battle for the Belt" project, is testing whether corn or soybeans yield better under those shifting conditions.

The challenges don't end once crops are in the ground. Wilson noted that warmer overnight temperatures and rising humidity put added stress on livestock, while LaBarge pointed to pests and diseases that thrive under variable weather.

"Tar spot and Fusarium ear molds have become more frequent and severe in Ohio's corn crop," LaBarge said. "Active research to predict and manage these pests is underway by CFAES researchers."

At Farm Science Review, Wilson will share insights on how to turn climate data into practical management decisions, including conservation practices such as cover crops and no-till as well as investments in climate-resilient infrastructure.

LaBarge and CFAES' Agronomic Crops Team will showcase new artificial intelligence tools that give farmers field-specific insights on crop management and disease pressures, along with displays on pest management, soil carbon and planting research.

"Our goal is to provide farmers with research-based tools they can apply right away," LaBarge said.

Wilson added that the need for action is clear.

"Proper management is the key," he said. "With improved genetics, resilient infrastructure and smarter field practices, farmers can adapt to extremes. But the urgency is real. We need to start planning now."

Farmers can learn more at Farm Science Review, which runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 16-17, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 18. Advance tickets are $10 online, at participating OSU Extension offices and at select agribusinesses, or $15 at the gate. Children ages 5 and under are admitted free.

For tickets and more information, visit fsr.osu.edu.