Ohio Mixed Bag: Blackhand Gorge undergoing major construction project

Heath, Ohio — Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve will be undergoing major construction beginning Nov. 18, resulting in the closure of four trails and three visitor parking lots, according to the Ohio DNR.

The year-long construction project includes the permanent repair of three significantly eroded sites along the 4-mile paved trail. In addition to the paved trail closure, the Quarry Rim, Buttonbush Swamp, and Chestnut trails will also be closed. The trailhead parking lots located at Toboso Road, Brownsville Road, and Brushy Fork Road will also be closed during construction. Two trails at the state nature preserve will remain open, the Marie Hickey and Canal Locks trails. Pets are strictly prohibited on these two trails.

ODNR understands the impact this can have on a beloved state nature preserve and appreciates the public’s patience during construction. These needed construction projects will improve overall safety and visitor experience to be enjoyed for years to come.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the Blackhand Gorge website for updated alerts during construction as areas of the preserve may open or close temporarily throughout the next year. For questions or concerns, please email the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves at naturalareas@dnr.ohio.gov.

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Boating Ed Grants Now Available

Columbus — The Ohio DNR (ODNR) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Boating Safety Education Grant, which can provide vital funding to applicants for equipment, training, and events that promote boating safety. The deadline to submit applications is Dec. 1. Eligible applicants can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $60,000.

Funds from the Boating Safety Education Grant can be used to purchase boats, paddlecraft, trailers, lifejackets, and other essential safety equipment, as well as to support training and safety-related events. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines and submit their applications online.

For more information on the Boating Safety Education Grant and to access the application, visit the ODNR website.

Register Now For CMP Junior Program

Camp Perry, Ohio — Registration for the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s (CMP) Three-Position Air Rifle Postal Championship is now open.

The annual competition is designed for junior athletes involved in 4-H, Scouts, American Legion, club, or JROTC sporter and precision air rifle programs. Firing in the CMP’s Postal Championships not only promotes growth and experience in competition at a national level but also allows the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals on the range.

During the CMP Three-Position Air Rifle (3PAR) Postal Championship, competitors fire record shots at their home ranges in each of the three positions: kneeling, prone and standing. Interested competitors may sign up on the CMP website and compete upon mailed paper targets or fire locally on electronic targets. Paper targets should be submitted back to CMP headquarters for official scoring by staff members.

This year’s Postal Competition will be open through Jan. 5, 2025. State CMP Championships are open Jan. 15 to April 15.

Top scoring athletes of the CMP Postals will move on to the Regional Championships in Ohio, Alabama or Utah in April, with the culminating 2025 National Championships set to be held at the Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center at Camp Perry, Ohio, June 19-21 (sporter), and July 7-9 (precision).

For registration and more information on the CMP Postal Competition or the CMP State Championships, visit here.

MWCD Developing Trail Plan

New Philadelphia, Ohio — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) continues its commitment to providing outdoor recreation opportunities through its vast network of trails, emphasizing their critical role in promoting community well-being, conservation, and environmental education.

The MWCD trail system offers a wide variety of hiking, biking, and equestrian paths that meander through the scenic landscapes of the Muskingum River Watershed. These trails provide opportunities for individuals and families to connect with nature, stay active, and explore Ohio’s rich natural heritage.

MWCD is expanding and improving its trail network to meet the growing demand for outdoor recreational opportunities. As part of this effort, MWCD is seeking community input to develop a Master Trail Plan that will guide the enhancement and expansion of the trail system in the years ahead. For more information about MWCD’s trails or to participate in the ongoing survey to shape future trail development, visit www.mwcd.org/trail-survey.

WTU Donates To Veterans Event

Columbus — Earlier this year, Fayette County’s Whitetails Unlimited awarded a grant totaling $10,000 to Operation Cherrybend. The mission of Operation Cherrybend is to lift up veterans for their courage, selflessness, and sacrifice to our country. They do this by creating a strong network with events, adventures, and music.

The annual Operation Cherrybend event is held at Cherrybend Pheasant Farm in Wilmington, Ohio. This historic hunting preserve has served as the location for bringing together veterans and civilians to form a network of like-minded people.