Rep. Pizzulli proposes bill to determine feasibility of reintroducing elk to Ohio’s forests

Ohio Rep. Justin Pizzulli, R-Franklin Furnace, has proposed a bill that would have the Ohio Department of Natural Resources conduct studies to determine the feasibility of reintroducing elk to Ohio’s forests.

House Bill 641, also known as “Enact the Trails and Tails Act,” would require the Department of Natural Resources to conduct two comprehensive studies on elk reintroduction and side-by-side trail expansion.

The bill currently sits in the House Committee. House Bill 641 would require ODNR to submit a comprehensive report of the studies to the General Assembly and the governor by Dec. 30, 2028.

As introduced, the Department of Natural Resources' Division of Parks and Watercraft shall conduct a study to evaluate the creation and expansion of all purpose vehicle and side-by-side riding opportunities across Ohio. The Division may conduct the study in consultation with state universities, local governments, and relevant stakeholders. The Division shall use Shawnee State Park, East Fork State Park, and Salt Fork State
Park as primary study sites. 

The study shall include:

• A geographic and environmental assessment to identify terrain types suitable for side-by-side use. The assessment shall include an environmental impact analysis and assess seasonal weather effects and trail durability.

• An economic and social impact assessment to estimate the potential tourism revenue, local business growth, job creation opportunities, and permit and trail pass revenue potential. Such assessment shall include a cost-benefit comparison of trail construction, operation, and maintenance.

• A safety and enforcement analysis. The analysis shall establish standards for trail width, visibility, and speed limits. Such analysis also shall evaluate emergency access routes, signage, and communication coverage. The Division shall coordinate with local law enforcement to recommend enforcement
protocols. In conducting the analysis, the Division shall review noise, dust, and emissions standards to ensure environmental compliance with all applicable laws.

• A public use and conflict management assessment. The assessment shall include proposals for zoning or temporal separation of uses and identify designated quiet or wildlife zones adjacent to trail systems. Such assessment also shall recommend seasonal or rotating trail closures to protect sensitive habitats. In conducting the assessment, the Division shall survey trail users for input.

For more on the bill, go to https://search-prod.lis.state.oh.us/api/v2/general_assembly_136/legisla…

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• Pizzulli also has announced that Scioto County projects will be receiving $5 million of a statewide allocation of $350 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

“I am excited to champion investment into the 90th District,” Pizzulli said. “These initiatives will strengthen the greater Appalachian region for generations to come.”

The projects are aimed at expanding workforce, health, and youth needs throughout southern Ohio. The funding will be part of the state capital budget, a two-year construction budget.

The projects include:

• $2.5 million to expand the Shawnee State University College of Health and Human Services;

• $2 million to support the expansion of Appalachian Youth Behavioral Health Services;

• $323,150 to purchase industry-required training equipment for the Portsmouth Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Trust; and

• $300,000 to modernize the Scioto County Fairgrounds, preserving electrical infrastructure and ensuring safety of those who utilize the space.

Substitute House Bill 2 includes funds for statewide capital investments, including $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund; $400 million for Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program; $397.6 million for higher education projects; and $250 million for local jail construction.