BATAVIA, Ohio — Clermont County commissioners proclaimed August as Ohio Proud Month, honoring farmers, growers and food producers who contribute to one of the state’s largest industries.
The board presented the proclamation to LeeAnn Wells, owner of Queen City Farms, a Clermont County grower that has partnered with the Ohio Proud program to connect its products with distributors, restaurants and grocery stores, the county said in a Facebook post.
Ohio Proud is the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s marketing program that helps consumers identify food and agricultural products grown, raised or processed in the state. Created in 1993, the program has grown to nearly 400 member companies, which must grow, make or process at least half of their product in Ohio to qualify, according to the department.
Agriculture is Ohio’s largest industry, contributing more than $105 billion a year to the state’s economy, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture. The county said Ohio grows or raises more than 200 types of crops and livestock and is home to hundreds of food and agricultural businesses.
Queen City Farms grows specialty microgreens and produce, according to the company. It began as a 400-square-foot residential operation and has since expanded into a 6-acre site with more than 6,000 square feet of indoor growing space. The farm recycles 90% of the water it uses, relies on energy-efficient LED lighting and does not use chemical pesticides, according to the company. Produce reaches customers within 24 hours of harvest, and surplus is donated to the community after each harvest, the company said.
The Board of Commissioners — President Bonnie Batchler, Vice President David Painter and member Claire Corcoran — issues proclamations throughout the year recognizing local businesses, organizations and observances.
The information contained in this story was obtained from Clermont County and the Ohio Department of Agriculture.