The Ohio Department of Natural Resources celebrated Ohio State University's national football championship in a rooted manner, planting a buckeye tree at the Natural Resources Park. Joining in the festivity were Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel and ODNR Director Mary Mertz, alongside Ohio State University Athletics Director Ross Bjork and the team members themselves, according to a recent ODNR article.
With shovels in hand, the Ohio State football team and community supporters put the sapling into the ground, symbolizing the strength and resilience that led the team to victory. "I am so proud of the Ohio State Football team and their amazing journey to win the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff national championship earlier this year," Tressel told ODNR. He praised players, coaches, and staff for being role models within the Buckeye State.
The decision to plant a buckeye tree was not taken lightly; it holds tremendous significance for both Ohio State University and the state itself. The buckeye tree stands as a living emblem, having been named the official state tree of Ohio back in 1953. It is celebrated in song, adorned in memorabilia, and recognized instantly by its unique nut, which serves as Ohio State's mascot.
There's an enthusiasm for the future rooted in ODNR Director Mertz's words, looking forward to visitors engaging with this symbol of triumph. "Planting this tree at Natural Resources Park is the perfect way to commemorate this historic season for Ohio State football and it allows visitors to celebrate that win, too," Mertz explained in an interview with ODNR. She conveyed her anticipation for the 2025 Ohio State Fair, where people across the state can witness the result of their planting.
