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May 13

Written by: news editor
5/13/2011 1:00 AM 

Successful volunteer efforts at Mosquito Lake State Park were recognized with the Volunteer Park of the Year Award for 2010.
COLUMBUS, OH – Successful volunteer efforts at Mosquito Lake State Park were recognized with the Volunteer Park of the Year Award for 2010, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).   

Mosquito Lake was selected among large state parks for the quality of volunteer projects, and the park’s outstanding efforts to recruit and communicate with volunteers. Park Manager Doug Lyons accepted the award on behalf of more than 70 volunteers who contributed 9,116 hours in 2010.

Recent accomplishments made possible with help from volunteers include Mosquito Lake’s Cooperation Station Dog Park, which opened in 2009. Since the grand opening, the Mosquito Lake Dog Park Friends Group has made improvements and hosted special events for pets and their owners.

Another volunteer group, the Friends of Mosquito Lake State Park campground, has provided a number of special events and activities for campers, and several members serve as camper hosts. The group is raising funds for campground improvements in the future.

A small group of nature lovers monitors the park’s bluebird boxes to keep the local bluebird population healthy, and another dedicated duo has created a butterfly garden. Various scout and service groups help with park clean ups and beautification projects, and the Trumbull County Chapter of  the Ohio Horseman’s Council helps maintain the park’s bridle trails.

"Mosquito Lake boasts one of our newest and most dynamic volunteer organizations," said David Payne, chief of Ohio State Parks. "The campground programs are fantastic, and the dog park has become a popular draw for the park and a valued asset to the community.”

Across Ohio, state park volunteers donate their time in many ways, including providing campground host services, assisting park staff with building and maintaining trails, litter pickup and beautification projects, aiding naturalists with programs and animal care. Volunteer programs offer opportunities for people of all ages and interests to participate. To become a park volunteer, contact a nearby state park.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

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For more information, contact:
Jim Henahan, ODNR Ohio State Parks
                                                                                   614. 265. 6549
Jason Fallon, ODNR Office of Communications
614. 265. 6842

 

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