Ten new natural resources officers begin duties in Ohio

Columbus — Ten new natural resources officers (NROs) officially joined the ranks of the Ohio DNR (ODNR) recently, taking their oath of office during a commissioning ceremony at ODNR Headquarters in Columbus. The ceremony marked the conclusion of the most recent NRO Training Academy session.

“These new officers are ready to serve the people of Ohio in a truly unique way,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “They will patrol our lakes, forests, and parks, not only protecting these special places, but also ensuring families and visitors can enjoy them safely. Their service is an investment in both our natural resources and the communities that cherish them.”

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Natural resources officers are commissioned peace officers who protect Ohio’s state parks, forests, nature preserves, and waterways. In addition to enforcing laws, they play a critical role in educating visitors about conservation and boating safety. NROs are also trained to assist in emergencies, including search and rescue operations, natural disasters, and flood response, according to ODNR.

“These officers are guardians of both people and places,” said ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft Chief Glen Cobb. “They will spend their careers keeping visitors safe, protecting our natural resources, and being a trusted presence in Ohio’s outdoors. I’m confident this group will bring energy, integrity, and compassion to every community they serve.”

The officers began their journey in January with basic Peace Officer training at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy. They then completed four weeks of specialized instruction on ODNR operations, covering ATV use, vessel operation, communications, advanced firearms, and self-defense.

Now officially commissioned, the officers will continue their training in the field, paired with veteran officers in their assignment areas to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement, resource protection, and community outreach.

Here are the new Ohio natural resources officers, along with their hometowns, and first assignments: Patricia Cesario, East Liverpool, Ohio, Beaver Creek State Park; Jakob Dillon, Union Springs, New York, Cleveland Watercraft Office; Dylan Kaylor, Gahanna, Ohio, Alum Creek State Park; Cory Mills, Elyria, Ohio, Sandusky Watercraft Office; Cody Paugh, Painesville, Ohio, Punderson State Park; Jacob Sattelmaier, Creston, Ohio, Mohican State Park; Sophia Schroeder, Put-in-Bay, Ohio, Indian Lake State Park; William Smith, Cleves, Ohio, Hueston Woods State Park; Neil Sofranec, New Middletown, Ohio, Alum Creek State Park; Joel Thompson, Amanda, Ohio, Buckeye Lake State Park.