COLUMBUS, OH – Dr. Paul Mechling, a resident of Pierpont Township, was recently presented with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Cardinal Award for conservation.

A small group of ODNR representatives traveled to Mechling’s 388-acre Snowy Oak Tree Farm in Ashtabula County to recognize the retired veterinarian’s achievements and ongoing contributions to the conservation of Ohio’s natural resources.

Those attending the gathering included ODNR Assistant Director Steve Gray and ODNR Chief of Forestry Dan Balser.

“Dr. Mechling’s contributions to conservation and natural resources management in Ohio are truly legendary,” said Gray. “I have had the privilege of observing Paul’s great work for 35 years and his enthusiasm for conservation over that time has only intensified.”

Chief Balser, who nominated Mechling for the award, also noted the conservationist’s enthusiastic service and positive influence on numerous boards and councils, including the Ohio Forestry Advisory Council, Ashtabula SWCD Board of Supervisors, Ohio Forestry Association, Ashtabula Scenic Rivers Council, and as current chairman of the Ohio Wildlife Council.

“Paul Mechling is a name synonymous with conservation in Ohio. He has been especially active and effective as an advocate for Ohio tree farmers and woodland owners,” Balser said. “Paul has positively influenced legislative awareness of sustainable forestry benefits at both the state and national level.”

Mechling said becoming an active member of the Ohio Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation 40 years ago spurred his interest in conservation. Today, those efforts are focused on promoting sustainable forestry, wildlife habitat, and clean water.

Family and legacy also are important to Mechling. Originally from Perry County, his ties there remain strong, running the family’s 340-acre Wal-Mec Farm in Hopewell Township with his brother, Mark.

“Life is short and you can’t just talk about good conservation practices,” said Mechling. “To create a lasting-legacy for future generations you must put those practices into action – plant trees, create wetlands, cultivate pollinator habitats. For me, it’s about living, believing, and sharing a life of conservation. That’s why my wife, Joanne, and I love having people of all ages at our Snowy Oak Tree Farm.”

ODNR also selected two other Ohioans to receive the 2020 Cardinal Award: Tamala Solomon of Columbus and Doug Wynn of Russel’s Point.

The ODNR Cardinal Award honors individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional awareness and concern for ideals reflected in the department’s mission statement. Since 1971, past winners of the Cardinal Award have included volunteers, outdoor writers, educators, businesses, naturalists, farmers, biologists, and outdoor sporting organizations.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

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For more information, contact:
Stephanie O’Grady, ODNR Office of Communications
614-265-6860