The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) welcomes visitors every day to state parks, forests, nature preserves, and wildlife areas in all of Ohio’s 88 counties. Passage of the Capital Appropriations Bill will provide the resources to manage and maintain those properties for generations.

That will include funding to support significant improvements at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, including refurbishing the main dike and renovations at the Sportsmen’s Migratory Bird Center. This project will protect critical habitat for hunters and birders alike and provide a world-class experience for birders who visit to see Lake Erie’s rare and popular waterfowl.

“We are incredibly grateful to have the support of Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio’s elected representatives shown by a strong capital bill,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “People visited Ohio’s great outdoors more than ever over the last year. This funding will allow us to continue to invest in important conservation activities and provide the infrastructure to help people connect with nature.”

Money allocated to the Division of Parks and Watercraft will be used to ensure safe stays for all guests at Ohio State Parks. ODNR will be modernizing lodges, updating heating and cooling systems, roof repair, and other infrastructure projects. Investments will also be made in trail improvements, campgrounds and cabins.

Funds dedicated to the Division of Wildlife are an investment in conservation and improved wildlife habitat, which leads to increased opportunities to fish, hunt, and enjoy wildlife in Ohio. This bill also will also allow the Division of Wildlife to invest in the renovation of Ohio’s state fish hatcheries, which annually produce more than 40 million popular fish species enjoyed by Ohio anglers.

There will also be significant investment in upgrading and repairing dams on both park and wildlife properties.