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Mission Statement
To administer a system of natural areas and scenic rivers by identifying, inventorying, protecting and managing the best remaining examples of Ohio's natural diversity for the benefit of present and future generations.
Historical Background
The Natural Areas Preservation Act of 1970 was amended in 1976 to create a division to establish and administer a statewide system of nature preserves and wild, scenic and recreational rivers.
Main Purpose
The division oversees 128 natural areas and preserves and 20 scenic river segments, administers the Natural Areas Program, Scenic Rivers Program, Natural Heritage Database, Endangered Plant Law and Cave Protection Act. It also conducts and promotes research and educational programs designed to further the preservation of significant biological and geological features. Activities include public programming, preserve maintenance, ecological management, biological and zoological inventories, facility construction, preserve law enforcement, public project review and environmental education.
Priorities
The division's priority is to provide protection through acquisition, dedication and/or designation for the highest quality and most threatened of Ohio's natural areas and scenic rivers.
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