Ohio DNR adds nine new officers

Columbus — Nine 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 tenth NRO Training Academy.

“These nine officers represent the next generation of leadership in Ohio’s outdoors,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Becoming a natural resources officer requires discipline, dedication, and a deep respect for public service. Today, they join a proud tradition of professionals who protect not only our lands and waters, but the people who enjoy them. I am incredibly proud of their commitment and confident they will serve Ohio with professionalism and heart.”

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 respond to emergencies, including search and rescue operations, natural disasters, and flood events.

“Our natural resources officers wear many hats: law enforcement officer, educator, first responder, and ambassador for Ohio’s natural spaces,” said Glen Cobb, chief of the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft. “This class has demonstrated teamwork and a strong sense of purpose throughout their training. As they begin their careers in communities across the state, I know they will lead with integrity and make a lasting impact wherever they serve.”

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The officers began their journey last August with basic peace officer training at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy. Following graduation from the training academy in January, 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, working alongside veteran officers in their assigned areas to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement, resource protection, and community outreach.

Listed below are the new natural resources officers, along with their hometowns, and first assignments:

Ethan Beekman, Peebles, Ohio – Scioto Field Office

Hunter Dearsman, Green Springs, Ohio – East Harbor State Park

Julia Ennemoser, Columbia Station, Ohio – Cleveland Field Office

Brandon Gamble, Bellefontaine, Ohio – Indian Lake State Park

Dinah Hay, Bellevue, Ohio – Sandusky Field Office

Courtney O’Donnell, Ravenna, Ohio – West Branch State Park

Eric Persing, Loveland, Ohio – East Fork State Park

Tiffany Stright, Ashtabula, Ohio – Punderson State Park

J.P. Wesley, Columbus, Ohio – Alum Creek State Park

The new officers join the ranks of the Ohio DNR law enforcement. Both natural resources officers and wildlife officers became CALEA accredited in March. ODNR voluntarily pursued CALEA accreditation to ensure its law enforcement officers are following the national gold standard in public safety.