ODNR Announces State Fair Attractions

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will once again be at this year’s Ohio State Fair, where visitors can enjoy attractions “ranging from archery and air rifle ranges to a peaceful tallgrass prairie.”

“We always look forward to coming together as a department during the Ohio State Fair because it allows us to proudly showcase the beauty of Ohio’s natural resources in a fun and exciting way,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said in a news release. “It’s a great time to share our passion for education and conservation, while celebrating our anniversary.”

You can participate in these activities and more at the Natural Resources Park. If you have trouble finding it, don’t worry, just look for Smokey Bear’s paw prints at the fair and follow them.

In addition to these activities, the ODNR will celebrate its 75th anniversary^th birthday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 25 at Governor’s Grove with their ODNR Birthday Bash.

ODNR’s presence at the fair will include a stream table exhibit where visitors can learn about macroinvertebrates; a mineral-focused coloring display; the wildlife walk, aviary and butterfly house; a giant animatronic smoked bear; the Geological Walk Through Time exhibit; the bluegill fishing pond; the kayak pond and more.

All of this is in addition to the Natural Resources Park Amphitheatre, which “will feature regular entertainment, such as the Great Lakes Timber Show, which showcases the skills of loggers, and contests such as the turkey calling contest in which fairgoers can participate.”

The Ohio State Fair officially begins on July 24 and runs through August 4.