More than 400 acres protected in Ohio’s Shawnee State Forest

West Union, Ohio — The Ohio DNR (ODNR) Division of Forestry has expanded protection to more than 400 acres of forested land in southern Ohio. This will expand Shawnee State Forest and increase protected acres in the Richard and Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System.

“Expanding Shawnee State Forest continues the state’s legacy of conserving Ohio’s natural resources for future generations,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “This expands Ohio’s largest block of forest, offering greater opportunities for recreation and enjoyment of the region’s natural beauty.”

The expansion of Shawnee State Forest and protected acres in the Richard and Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System ensures forested acres are protected and sustainably managed.

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The Division of Forestry used grant funding from the Forest Legacy Program to expand Shawnee State Forest by 263 acres of forested land. The land was sold by property owners interested in protection and conservation.

In addition to the expansion of the state forest, ODNR also used the grant funding for a conservation easement of 141 acres on the Richard and Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System, which is separate from the forest. These properties in Adams County are key in the continued conservation and connection of the land between these two forested areas.

“Conserving this land ensures that more forest acres are protected and properly managed, which enhances water quality, improves wildlife habitat, and provides forest products for Ohio’s future,” said Dan Balser, chief of the ODNR Division of Forestry. “This project also increases forest connectivity, creating new recreational opportunities for Ohioans.”

The Forest Legacy Program is a national, competitive grant program administered by the USDA Forest Service. The program provides federal funding to the Division of Forestry for the purchase of land and conservation easements to conserve high quality forests in the state.