Ohio Farm Bureau applauds Ohio EPA decision to maintain permitting process for data centers
The Ohio Farm Bureau has praised the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's decision to maintain the existing individual permitting process for wastewater discharge from data centers. The EPA chose not to finalize a proposed general permit after the Farm Bureau advocated for retaining the current framework, citing concerns about water quality. The organization believes the individual review ensures a thorough assessment of each facility's environmental impacts.
The Ohio Farm Bureau has commended the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for its decision to retain the existing individual permitting process for wastewater discharge from data centers. The EPA's choice not to finalize a proposed general National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit came after a public comment period during which Ohio Farm Bureau members and staff advocated for maintaining the current framework.
Jack Irvin, vice president of public policy for Ohio Farm Bureau, stated that the decision is "the right decision for our state" and praised the EPA for listening to concerns. The organization had argued that a general permit would jeopardize water quality improvements made by Ohio farmers and conservationists, emphasizing that the current project-specific review effectively assesses each facility's unique operations and potential environmental impacts.
This development follows Ohio Governor Mike DeWine's recent pause on considering new data center tax exemption requests through the Ohio Tax Credit Authority, coinciding with the Ohio General Assembly’s Joint Data Center Study Committee examining data center growth across the state. The Ohio Farm Bureau continues to support responsible economic development while prioritizing the protection of Ohio's water resources, farmlands, and rural communities.