The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is going cashless from October 28 to enhance checkout speed, security, and environmental practices. To this end, fee-free pre-paid debit card machines will be available for cash users.

Upper Arlington's Parks & Recreation department is asking residents to update their account information and provide proof of residency before the new community center opens.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is beginning construction at Van Buren State Park to restore Rocky Ford Creek and create a wetland complex, improving the ecosystem and recreational opportunities.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will upgrade Tar Hollow State Park with improved campgrounds and facilities starting in January 2025. However, the drive-in campground will close in Spring 2026, and other park areas will remain open.

The ODNR announced the 59th Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike for January 18, 2025. The hike will feature a six-mile trek through snowy landscapes, free food, and safety arrangements.

Ohio's Department of Natural Resources encourages residents to donate their live-cut Christmas trees to create habitats for fish, birds, and small mammals instead of disposing of them in landfills.

Delaware State Park will receive a new inclusive playground by 2025, funded by various entities, including a $250,000 grant from the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources allocates $3.4 million in grants for local park improvements, supporting 86 proposals for amenities like playgrounds and pickleball courts across 73 counties.

The Columbus Zoo will close due to extreme cold, with plans to ensure animal welfare and continue a charity donation despite the MLK holiday closure.

Ohio's ODNR is allocating $350,000 for local boating education programs, a significant increase from the previous year, to improve boating safety across the state.

Dr. Kathayoon Khalil is the new VP and Director of Conservation at Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, bringing over 20 years of experience in environmental causes.

Ohio's groundhog, Buckeye Chuck, prepares for his annual weather prediction with a high accuracy rate as Marion residents anticipate his forecast amid varied weekly weather conditions.

Ohio's ODNR hosted the Winter Hike Series at Clifton Gorge. The series highlighted local ecology and history, with staggered group starts and post-hike shuttles.

TourismOhio introduces historical road trips for education and leisure, celebrating the state's presidential and women's history, as well as ancient cultures.

Ohio's Department of Natural Resources seeks nominations for its Natural Resources Hall of Fame to honor conservationists who have significantly impacted the state.

TourismOhio released the 2025 Ohio Spring Events Guide detailing 440 events across the state's 88 counties, organized by month and region, to showcase Ohio's spring festivities.

The ODNR is launching its trout stocking program, releasing 85,000 rainbow trout in 90 Ohio locations starting March 12 to enhance fishing opportunities.

Heather Ridge Park's playground is getting a makeover, with old equipment being replaced after community consultation. Construction starts in late March, with completion expected by June. Temporary closure during work. Updates at hilliardohio.gov.

Ohio's ODNR releases weekly Spring Wildflower Bloom reports detailing emerging native wildflowers through mid-May. The reports include viewing recommendations and a checklist for enthusiasts.

Columbus Zoo celebrated the hatching of two penguin chicks and the birth of over 70 baby seahorses, with elephant calves expected soon.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources launched the updated Ohio Lake Erie Birding Trail Guidebook, a resource for birdwatchers that supports local economies.

Ohio wildflowers are beginning to bloom, with southern regions showcasing early species while the central and northern areas emerge slowly.

Ohio's spring wild turkey hunting season opens, featuring youth weekends and steady poult per hen rates. ODNR monitors turkey populations through GPS-tracking of hens and acoustic study of gobbling patterns.

Ohio expects the emergence of Brood XIV periodical cicadas after a 17-year underground phase, as reported by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry.

Ohio's spring wildflower season is in full swing, with Southern Ohio seeing the peak of rare species and nature preserves showcasing a variety of blooms statewide.

Ohio's park lodges offer a stress-free Easter meal with scenic views, as part of an annual tradition combining dining and nature. Reservations are available for April 20.

Scioto Park in Dublin is set to upgrade its stage starting April 15, with new decking and groundwork for a future shade structure, aiming to finish by early May. Events during this period will be relocated.

The Ohio Spring Wildflower Bloom Report enters its fourth week, stating that despite recent rains, the wildflowers in Southern Ohio continue to thrive and present new species.

Ohio youth hunters successfully harvested 1,740 turkeys during a special youth-only hunting weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Governor Mike DeWine initiated Ohio State Parks Week with free admission, as ODNR hosts various outdoor activities and opens the Eco-Discovery Center at Salt Fork State Park on Earth Day.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources showcased the spring colors of Zaleski State Forest from Atkinson Ridge Fire Tower, an enduring historical landmark offering panoramic views.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources shared photos of Clifton Gorge and John Bryan State Park, highlighting the parks' spring beauty and inviting nature lovers to visit.

Ohio hunters have harvested 12,451 wild turkeys in the first part of the 2021 season, surpassing the three-year average and closely following last year's figures.

The North America Trek exhibit at the Columbus Zoo is delayed due to a window crack and bad weather, with the focus on animal acclimation and welfare.

Shier Rings Park in Dublin is closing for renovations, including the repair of its pond's stone walls. The shared use path will remain open, with work expected to be completed by August.

Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve in Ohio is a prime spot for birdwatching during the spring migration, with a variety of species like warblers and egrets making an appearance.

Ohio hunters have seen an increase in wild turkey harvests this spring, with 15,768 birds reported by May 18, slightly higher than the previous year and the three-year average, according to ODNR figures.

Ohio's ODNR has implemented life jacket loaner stations at 32 state parks to enhance water safety and promote the use of life jackets, with 1,890 jackets available free of charge.

Gahanna announces its 2025 Nature Photo Contest, starting on Nature Photography Day, June 15, inviting local photographers to submit photos for city use.

Southwest Ohio's public lakes provide excellent bass, muskellunge, and crappie fishing. Affordable licenses, free fishing days, a mobile app, and Fish Ohio pins for trophy catches enhance the experience.

Central Ohio offers prime fishing spots for various species, affordable licenses, and free fishing days, with resources like maps and tips available via the HuntFish OH app.

Ohio opens the Falls Edge Glass Walkway, a 137-foot-long glass pedestrian bridge, at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park for unique views and conservation.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources introduces an audio tour at Strouds Run State Park, combining nature sounds with technology for an educational outdoor experience.

Ohio DNR's conTAC program took teens on the Cuyahoga River to learn about conservation and ecosystem health, aiming to foster environmental stewardship.

Ohio's spring wild turkey hunting season concluded with a total of 15,911 birds checked, surpassing the previous season and the last three-year average, with Ashtabula County leading the harvest.

Ohio's Hocking and Mohican-Memorial State Forests introduce a new reservation system, replacing the first-come, first-served camping policy, per ODNR.

Research led by Earth sciences professor Elizabeth Griffith suggests the deep sea floor sediment in the Pacific Ocean holds important clues to Earth's history, prompting calls for further exploration using advanced drilling technologies.

Upper Arlington officials remind residents to leash dogs and clean up after them in public spaces, citing an increase in complaints about off-leash dogs and waste.

ODNR unveiled a marker at Jesse Owens State Park honoring Big Muskie, the world's largest dragline. The landmark reflects on Ohio's mining history and environmental progress.

The ODNR is considering restructured waterfowl hunting zones in Ohio for 2026-2030, and public input is sought before a final decision by the Ohio Wildlife Council.

Ohio's ODNR and the University of Dayton have begun tracking a female black bear with a GPS collar, aiming to study the species' reemergence and movements in the state.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources opens a new Exploration Center at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve with interactive exhibits for visitors.

Ohio's ODNR is accepting applications for controlled hunting permits on public lands for the 2025-26 season until July 31, featuring deer and other game.

The Upper Arlington Parks & Recreation department extends Devon Pool's season, offering residents more opportunities to swim with additional hours from August 11 to 29.

ODNR offers grants to landowners for creating grassland habitats to support wildlife like the northern bobwhite quail. The program joins conservation and soil health use, funded by USDA's Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

Nine cadets began training with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to become Natural Resources Officers after being selected from 366 applicants.

Ohio's ODNR is hosting a Free Range Day on August 16 at state public shooting ranges, offering free shooting opportunities with equipment and permits provided.

The ODNR announced special deer hunts in 22 Ohio counties to manage deer populations, requiring hunters to attend meetings, have a 2025-2026 license, and pay $5 for a lottery ticket.

ODNR announced the winners of the America 250 Field Trip Competition, celebrating student engagement with nature through art and essays. The program aims to foster conservationism among Ohio's youth.

Ohio's Mohican State Park opens a new visitor center, with Governor Mike DeWine and ODNR Director Mary Mertz leading the opening ceremony. The center aims to enhance guest experiences with educational and accessible features.

ODNR will host the seventh annual Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend in September, offering various outdoor activities at 12 state parks to encourage nature appreciation and conservation among Girl Scouts in Ohio.

Ohio announces fall hunting seasons starting September 1, including squirrel, dove, waterfowl, and white-tailed deer archery. Regulations and permits are available online and via the HuntFish OH app.

ODNR dedicated a historical marker to Camp Sherman, a WWI training camp, highlighting Ohio's role in training soldiers and the site's transformation into a wildlife area.

The Moser Woods Tree Farm in Bluffton, Ohio, will host an educational tour on September 6, showcasing sustainable forestry and wildlife management, after being named the 2025 Ohio Tree Farm of the Year.

Columbus Zoo introduces two orphaned black bear cubs, Ursula and Yzma, to the public, highlighting conservation and the impact of human activity on wildlife.

Gahanna invites community feedback through a survey for the revamp of Friendship Park, emphasizing public input in the city's playground upgrade initiative with a September 19 deadline.

The Columbus Zoo named their baby elephant Rita Jean, after Rita Jean Wolfe, a significant figure in the zoo's history and a supporter of community organizations.

Ohio is set to host family-friendly Fall Color festivities on October 26-27 at Hocking State Forest Cabin and Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve, featuring activities and educational experiences amidst autumn scenery.

Ohio wildlife officers Barr, Grote, and Leibengood receive national Officer of the Year awards for excellence in conservation and wildlife management.

Volunteers in Ohio are invited to celebrate National Public Lands Day with the ODNR on September 27-28, to help maintain state parks through various activities.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources collaborates with MacGillivray Freeman Films to create "Ohio: Wild at Heart," an IMAX film showcasing Ohio's ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Ohio wins the 2025 National Gold Medal for Park Management excellence, recognized for innovation and stewardship.

Ohio's RecoveryOhio Initiative joins with ODNR for a mental wellness and suicide prevention event at Findley State Park on September 20, featuring free activities like hikes and therapy dogs.

Ohio officials warn against outdoor burning during the state's wildfire season from October 1, stressing adherence to laws that ban burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. and urging caution due to dry conditions.

Ohio's state parks were named the best in the nation, as announced by Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz.

ODNR stocked 20,000 muskies in nine Ohio lakes to bolster sport fishing and conservation efforts, offering anglers a chance to catch this challenging and sizable game fish.

The invasive box tree moth has been confirmed in four new Ohio counties, threatening the state's horticulture industry. The ODA urges public reporting and is taking action to assess the infestation.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has launched a digital challenge using an app to encourage visits to all state parks, rewarding visitors with digital badges.

Despite a dry spell, Ohio's trees are showcasing vibrant fall colors, with the ODNR providing updates and leaf-peeping recommendations.

Ohio's ODNR announces Hocking Hills region fall events with foliage tours and educational activities on October 25-26, including wagon rides and hikes.

A historical marker has been unveiled at Ash Cave in Hocking Hills State Park by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, highlighting the site's natural and human history.

Conservationists released 116 young eastern hellbenders into Ohio's waterways to combat the species' near-endangerment, improve ecosystem health, and promote biodiversity.

Ohio inaugurates a new marina and nature center at Buck Creek State Park, enhancing the state's recreational offerings with educational and leisure activities for visitors.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources reported a slight decline in wild turkey populations with a poult index of 2.7 per hen, slightly below the 10-year average.

Hueston Woods State Park hosts "Kleinfunde," a wildlife photo exhibit by Mitch Wiebell, highlighting small creatures, part of ODNR and OAC's Arts in the Parks.

Ohio veterans participated in an ODNR-hosted archery hunt in Zaleski State Forest, bonding and harvesting eleven deer as part of wildlife management and veteran appreciation efforts.

Ohio Wildlife Council considers reducing deer bag limits in several counties due to EHD outbreak, impacting the 2025-26 hunting season, while also setting dates for the 2026 wild turkey hunting seasons.

The ODNR's 2025 acorn mast survey in Ohio shows higher than average acorn production from red and white oak trees, with significant wildlife implications and interest for hunters and conservationists.

Upper Arlington's GIS Department introduces an interactive Leaf Trail Map for autumn colors, inviting residents and visitors to share their favorite spots.

Ohio is experiencing a vibrant fall foliage season despite initial delays, with areas around the state reaching their peak colors. Enthusiasts are encouraged to visit ODNR parks and forests to enjoy the spectacle.

Ohio hunters have harvested 46,359 white-tailed deer during the first six weeks of the archery season, a slight decrease from the previous year's count.

"Ohio: Wild at Heart" film showcasing the state's natural beauty premiered at COSI, with a focus on wildlife and human interactions with nature, also highlighting environmental issues.

Ohio's ODNR has announced seasonal closures of horseback riding trails and all-purpose vehicle areas for maintenance, effective in early December, with re-openings in late March and early April 2026.

Worthington volunteers planted 35 trees in local parks, supported by the Rotary Club and city government, enhancing green spaces and promoting ecosystem health.

A study indicates increased coyote-human interactions in urban green spaces like parks, with GPS data showing coyotes often frequent these areas for resources despite the risks of human activity.

Ohio's youth hunters harvested 9,759 white-tailed deer during the November 2023 season, slightly less than in 2024, with Coshocton County leading in numbers. Youth permits also apply to other hunting seasons.

Ohio hunters reported 23,149 white-tailed deer on the opening day of the state's gun hunting season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife, with Ashtabula County leading in numbers.

Ohio's gun season deer harvest dipped to 85,448 from last year's 87,191, with 27,934 being antlered. The season faced impacts from EHD and saw rifles as the top choice among hunters.

Marion, Ohio officials informed residents that Aqua has adjusted water treatment processes after detecting organic compounds, ensuring water meets safety standards despite taste issues.

Gantz Park in Grove City is offering a Winter Wildlife Wonderland with lights and decorations every evening until December 31, for a serene, festive experience.

The City of Dublin, Ohio highlights winter bird activity along the Scioto River on social media, focusing on eagles and owls engaging in behaviors like calling, nest building, and hunting.

Hilliard is revising its Big Darby Creek watershed policies, seeking public input on the proposed environmental sustainability practices for future development.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources reported 715 bald eagles sighted during a January survey, evidence of successful conservation efforts in the state.

Delaware, Ohio's Falconry Pop Up Program featured red-tailed hawks and handlers, drawing an eager crowd for an educational experience despite cold weather.

The Ohio Wildlife Diversity Conference will celebrate ecological successes on March 11 at the Ohio Union in Columbus, with diverse topics and perks for attendees.

Ohio's deer season ended with hunters harvesting 232,142 deer, the seventh-highest record, despite a dip from the previous year and the impact of an EHD outbreak in certain counties.

Tim Taylor's wood duck painting has been selected for Ohio's 2027 Wetlands Habitat Stamp by a panel of judges, beating 22 other entries, with sales supporting wetland conservation efforts.

The Franklin Soil & Water Conservation District in Ohio is hosting its annual Tree and Plant Sale, offering native trees, shrubs, and seeds to promote local wildlife and combat invasive species.

Dawes Arboretum announced plans for a two-story, roughly 28,000-square-foot welcome center — a nearly $17 million investment that will add a cafe, larger gift shop and meeting space.

Urbana’s council approved a 12‑month moratorium after hundreds of residents warned a proposed $1B data center could threaten the aquifer that feeds Cedar Bog. The pause gives officials time to study water, power and zoning impacts.

A 0.6‑mill, 10‑year renewal that funds about 75% of Clark County parks operations will be on the May 5 ballot. Officials warn another defeat could force service cuts.

Federal data show Ohio's outdoor‑recreation sector topped $20 billion in 2024, supporting roughly 153,000 jobs and prompting new parks and trail investments.

Great Southern Metro Park opens April 1 in south Columbus with a community celebration and a 230‑yard obstacle course. The 70‑acre site adds trails and Scioto River access.

The invasive box tree moth is stripping boxwoods around Greater Cincinnati. Experts outline simple monitoring and treatment steps homeowners can follow now.

A viral Wisconsin video shows a bobcat grab a hunter and has Ohioans wondering whether the wild cats have really returned. Officials say sightings are rising but attacks on people remain rare.

A leucistic spotted salamander was photographed in Fairfield County in March, drawing interest from wildlife officials and area naturalists.

ODNR opened a timber visitor center and 10 Frank Lloyd Wright‑inspired cabins at Jesse Owens State Park, with a bison herd grazing on nearby pastures. The work is part of a multi‑million dollar upgrade to the Appalachian Hills area.

Magee Marsh and Maumee Bay will host the Biggest Week in American Birding next week, with guided trips, dozens of warbler species and registration details.

A 1950s backyard release may have produced millions of wall lizards across Greater Cincinnati. Researchers are studying their spread, lead tolerance and disease links.

A 63-year-old Davenport woman, Nancy Baker, died after falling at Cantwell Cliffs in Hocking Hills State Park; officials urged visitors to stay on marked trails.

Columbus' outdoor pools reopened this weekend with a $3 admission and cashless entry; four neighborhood pools started the season amid weather delays and staffing updates.

A tropical Lesser Frigatebird was spotted at Sippo Lake near Canton, drawing birders and likely marking Ohio’s first reported sighting. Photos and checklists helped confirm the report.

Poison hemlock is appearing across Columbus. Quick removal and careful disposal will stop thousands of new seeds.