REYNOLDSBURG — The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) announced Wednesday that a comprehensive grain audit for United Equity Inc. has been completed. This audit determined that the facility is in a state of failure, as specifically defined under Ohio’s grain law. This crucial finding, released by the ODA, directly impacts local farmers who have conducted business with United Equity Inc.
As a direct result of this ruling, Ohio Grain Indemnity Funds are now accessible. These funds are designated to support farmers who hold eligible claims. These claims stem from grain that farmers previously delivered to United Equity Inc.’s various locations within the region, specifically those situated in Delphos, Spencerville, and Neptune. The availability of these funds is designed to provide recourse for affected producers.
To assist farmers navigating this process, the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s grain program staff will host an in-person assistance session. This session is scheduled for Friday, October 2, and will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held at the United Equity Inc. facility located at 104 S. Main Street in Delphos. During this time, ODA staff will be on hand to review necessary documentation from farmers, provide direct assistance with the claim filing process, and answer specific questions from any farmers potentially impacted by this situation.
The official declaration of failure follows an earlier action taken by the ODA. On September 10, the grain handlers license for United Equity Inc. was suspended. This suspension occurred after an initial inspection of the company's financial records by department staff, which revealed a financial shortfall. The suspension was a preliminary measure leading to the more extensive audit and subsequent failure declaration.
Farmers who have outstanding grain obligations with United Equity Inc. and require additional information or have questions are encouraged to contact the Ohio Department of Agriculture directly. The ODA has provided a dedicated phone number for these inquiries: 614-728-6410.
Ohio Revised Code includes provisions designed to protect farmers in such situations. This code establishes an automatic lien, held by the Ohio Department of Agriculture, specifically for the benefit of farmers. This lien becomes active in the event of a grain handler's failure or insolvency. Significantly, the department's liens are given priority over all other competing lien claims that may be asserted against the grain handler. This legal framework is in place to ensure that the indemnity fund receives the maximum possible reimbursement during the asset liquidation process, thereby strengthening the fund's ability to support affected farmers.
