ODNR honors veterans with special archery hunt at Zaleski State Forest
Sixteen Ohio veterans were treated to a guided archery hunt at Zaleski State Forest by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The ODNR divisions of Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks and Watercraft partnered with the Buckeye Hero Hunt Committee to provide this special opportunity for veterans to hunt white-tailed deer.
“We really enjoy assisting with this fantastic event each year,” said ODNR Division of Forestry Chief Dan Balser. “We are happy to provide opportunities to those who sacrificed so much for our country."
All veterans who applied and were invited to participate, were able to attend the event free of charge. Volunteers assisted the Buckeye Hero Hunt Committee in supporting the veterans with their hunt. Meals, lodging and equipment were provided as part of the event. A total of nine deer were harvested between Saturday, Oct. 12 and Sunday, Oct. 13.
“Every year, it is a great experience to work with the Buckeye Hero Hunt Committee and volunteers,” said Zaleski State Forest Manager Courtney Cawood. “This event creates lifelong memories for those who attend and volunteer. We are happy to host such a wonderful group of individuals at Zaleski.”
The ODNR Division of Forestry promotes the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. This hunt provided an opportunity to effectively manage the damage white-tailed deer cause to the forest ecosystem in a specific area of Zaleski State Forest. White-tailed deer can have substantial negative impacts on forest health and regeneration due to deer browsing on tree seedlings and herbaceous plants. Hunting is the most effective way to control deer populations, and the ODNR Division of Forestry is pleased to create this great opportunity for veterans.
The Ohio Division of Forestry promotes the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands, visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov. Follow the Division of Forestry on Facebook and on Instagram @odnrforestry.
In 2024, join ODNR in celebrating 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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