The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is on the hunt for environmental heroes to join the illustrious ranks of the state's Natural Resources Hall of Fame. Recognizing those who've turned a lifetime's work into a greener Ohio, the department is calling for the public to nominate individuals who have made significant contributions in conserving Ohio’s water, soil, woodlands, wildlife, or mineral resources. Nominations, as reported by ODNR, can be submitted online or mailed in by April 28.
To be considered, nominees should either hail from Ohio or have left a significant mark on the state's conservation efforts, eligibility criteria that makes room for a wide array of environmental efforts, the department encourages nominations to honor individuals whose work perhaps has flown under the radar but has nevertheless been influential in preserving Ohio's natural legacy, according to ODNR Director Mary Mertz who highlighted the importance of acknowledging dedicated conservationists "We’re able to experience Ohio’s great outdoors," she stated via ODNR, expressing gratitude for their work in paving paths for conservation inspiration.
Famous past inductees into the Hall of Fame include historical figures such as Johnny Appleseed and contemporary conservationists like last year's awardees Michael Budzik, a wildlife management educator, Peg VanVleet, a Lake Erie conservationist, and Emmett Conway, Jr., an advocate for ethical land stewardship. In addition, the ODNR will honor individuals with the Cardinal Award, a nod to those recognized internally for their dedication to ODNR's mission—a ceremony for both the Hall of Fame and Cardinal Award recipients is set to take place at the Ohio State Fair.
The Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame, which first started in 1966, has honored a total of 193 individuals, with a goal to not only celebrate achievements but to inspire future generations to keep up the good fight in protecting our natural world, included among these champions of the environment are pioneers in various fields such as the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Louis Bromfield and botanist Lucy Braun, each inductee chosen for their lifetime commitment to conservation have helped shape the very experience of the outdoors in Ohio.
The ODNR stands committed to striking the right balance between utilization and preservation of natural resources, serving the state’s greater benefit, for more information about how to nominate someone or to request a nomination form by mail, interested parties can reach out to Tina Fronk or visit the ODNR website.
