Baird Seeks Farmers’ Input On Improving Land Drainage Laws

With the last two Drainage Task Force meetings scheduled for later this month, State Rep. Beau Baird encourages Hoosier farmers to provide their input on how lawmakers can improve Indiana’s agricultural drainage laws.

Baird co-chairs the Drainage Task Force, which was established by legislation from the 2022 session to review responsibilities between landowners and the state on drainage issues and whether changes can be made to the laws to give farmers more control over addressing drainage concerns on their land.

“Farmers have a tough job, and the state imposing overly burdensome regulations on them can make it even tougher,” Baird said. “I’ve heard from many landowners who are concerned about this issue, and I encourage more to provide feedback so lawmakers have the information they need to strike a better balance between land rights and protecting the environment.”

Hoosiers can offer input by contacting Baird’s office at 317-234-9028 or [email protected]. The final Drainage Task Force meetings are scheduled for noon on Oct. 11 in the House Chamber and 2 p.m. on Oct. 25 in the Senate Chamber at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

Members of the public are welcome to attend and testify at the meetings, which will also be livestreamed and archived online at iga.in.gov.

The task force’s findings and any policy recommendations will be reported to the Indiana General Assembly, which could take further action.