The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) announced 40 students have been selected to serve as members of the Conservation Teen Advisory Council (ConTAC) for the upcoming school year. New members include Lillian Frias and Kaylie Simpson of Ottawa County.

ConTAC will serve as the voice of Ohio’s youth to ODNR and help expand the reach, impact, and quality of the agency’s youth initiatives.

“Young people are the future of Ohio and its natural resources,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz.  “I am inspired by this group’s interest and look forward to hearing their fresh perspective on how we can engage other students to become stewards of the state.”

Members will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies and campaigns that best represent Ohio’s young people. The groups will take those ideas into their own communities. ConTAC members will dedicate approximately 10 hours per quarter to this work.

High school students interested in natural resource conservation, outdoor recreation, wildlife, and making a positive impact are eligible to serve.

ConTAC’s kick-off meeting will be held virtually on Monday, Aug. 24.