When filling out their taxes this year, Ohioans can make a difference in preserving the state’s wealth of
natural resources for generations to come by making a donation through Ohio’s Income Tax Checkoff
Program.
Old-growth woods, bogs and fens, endangered species, prairies and other remnants of Ohio’s natural
history are all protected by a system of 136 state nature preserves. Ohioans who donate to the Natural
Areas State Income Tax Checkoff Program help support this system.
Checkoff donations have enabled the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas
and Preserves to construct trails and boardwalks, improve parking and signage and allow for greater
public access to a treasure trove of nature’s wonders available in Ohio. Additionally, donations support
critical ecological management activities, including efforts to remove non-native and invasive species
that pose a serious and ever-growing threat to sensitive habitats.
Last year, staff intensified efforts to treat and control non-native invasive species impacting
northwestern state nature preserves, including Irwin Prairie, Goll Woods, Sheldon’s Marsh and Lakeside
Daisy. A combination of staff labor, supplies and equipment supported by checkoff donations and
volunteer labor resulted in nearly 200 acres in northwestern Ohio being treated to stop the spread of 16
non-natives, such as glossy buckthorn, reed canary grass, Phragmites, bush honeysuckle, garlic mustard,
autumn olive and purple loosestrife.
In addition to eco-management activities, donations support new facility improvements. At Goll Woods,
located in Fulton County, gravel was added to improve a half-mile dirt trail. Visitor safety was
improved by reducing the slippery, muddy conditions as well as covering tripping hazards, such as
exposed roots, along the wooded trail.
In the Oak Openings region, one of Ohio’s most visited areas for hiking and nature appreciation, a trail
system and parking lot were developed at Lou Campbell State Nature Preserve in Lucas County. Formerly
only open by permit, the preserve is now open to visitors every day because of donations made to the
Natural Areas Fund.
Ohioans can join ODNR in protecting our state nature preserves. Please consider designating all or a
portion of your Ohio Income Tax refund to the Natural Areas Fund. Learn more by visiting ohiodnr.gov.

Taxpayers who are not receiving a refund this year may still contribute by sending a check to ODNR
Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, Natural Areas Fund, 2045 Morse Road, Building C-3, Columbus,
Ohio 43229.
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.