COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will once again welcome visitors to the Natural Resources Park at the Ohio State Fair with interactive exhibits and displays that will allow visitors to experience and see all of Ohio's outdoor opportunities. Located in the southeast corner of the state fairgrounds, the park will be open to all fairgoers throughout the fair, which runs July 27-Aug 7. Free activities are available from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
"The Ohio State Fair provides us with a great opportunity to share with fairgoers all of the outdoor activities they can enjoy right here in Ohio," ODNR Director James Zehringer said. "ODNR's Natural Resources Park provides so many hands-on experiences and interactive exhibits that people can walk away from their visit knowing a little more about Ohio's natural resources and what is being done every day so they can be enjoyed by everyone in our great state."
An exciting new fire tower display and cabin will debut at the 2016 Ohio State Fair. The first exhibit is a nod to Ohio's conservation efforts. The 71-foot-tall fire tower, now located behind Smokey Bear, was built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of an early warning system in spotting forest fires. Originally located in Pike County, the tower was recently moved to the fairgrounds to help reinforce the icon's fire prevention message. A favorite exhibit for families, Smokey Bear will continue to greet children by name each day of the fair from 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
The second new exhibit, a cabin located in the camping village, will feature naturalist demonstrations and activities throughout the state fair. The camping village will also offer disc golf, with experts and equipment on hand to teach visitors about the game. Another display in the village will showcase a camper, yurt and camper cabin, to represent some of the options available to people wishing to stay overnight in one of Ohio's 74 state parks.
Returning exhibits include the popular kayak pond, which is a 7,000-square-foot pond that gives guests an opportunity to safely learn how to kayak. Sign up for this experience at the pavilion in the ODNR Natural Resources Park. Additionally, located near the kayak pond, the personal watercraft simulator will be available, allowing visitors to try out the fun experience of "riding" a jet ski.
The youth fishing pond is also back by popular demand. Children under the age of 14 can learn how to catch and cook one of the 2,000 bluegill that have been stocked for the fair. A family-friendly opportunity, kids are sure to catch the fishing bug once they experience this fun and educational recreational opportunity.
The ODNR Natural Resources Park will continue providing free outdoor entertainment in the ODNR Amphitheater, which has been expanded to seat more than 600 people during multiple daily performances throughout the fair. Acts will range from lumberjack competitions, animal demonstrations with animals from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, as well as the ever popular retriever dog show, in addition to music and clogging performances.
Other educational opportunities are available, including the Butterfly House, where guests can view a dazzling array of colors while gazing at butterflies up close and learning about their lifecycle. Visitors are also encouraged to check out Ruthven's Aviary, which will feature some of Ohio's native bird species as well as how to create wildlife-friendly backyards. Fairgoers will enjoy walking through a tall grass prairie exhibit, representing Ohio's native plant life.
People visiting the park are encouraged to check out the archery range or visit the Annie Oakley BB Shooting Range. Instructors from the ODNR Division of Wildlife will also be available to teach and assist as fairgoers see how well they can hit a target.
The ODNR information booth will offer natural resources literature, and the gift shop will showcase a wide array of souvenirs, clothing and toys available for purchase.
For more information about the ODNR Natural Resources Park or to check out the daily amphitheater schedule, visit ohiodnr.gov/statefair. For more information about the Ohio State Fair, go to ohiostatefair.com.
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.
For more information, contact:
Jason Fallon, ODNR Office of Communications
614-265-6860
