COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) was proud to host more than 150,000 people during the total solar eclipse which awed and amazed onlookers on Monday.
“People from all around the world came to Ohio to witness the splendor of the total solar eclipse,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “ODNR helped showcase how Ohio is the Heart of it All by ensuring dozens of natural spaces were free, accessible, and safe for visitors.”
ODNR positioned staff all around the state to welcome people for the once-in-a-lifetime event in Ohio. It was a culmination of preparation and hard work among the department’s many divisions to ensure that visitors had a safe and enjoyable time at the state parks, wildlife areas, nature preserves, and forests.
“Whether people wanted to be standing along our beautiful rivers, in the clearing of towering trees, or among the sunny glow of Lake Erie, Ohio’s outdoor spaces were the perfect setting for this natural wonder,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “Visitors enjoyed an unforgettable experience in a safe, family-friendly setting enabled by our dedicated staff.”
Nearly 300 law enforcement officers were on duty around the state on Monday. Natural Resources Officers and Wildlife Officers were posted at some of the busiest locations along the path of totality. Meanwhile, other Wildlife Officers were able to monitor the state parks, nature preserves, and forests that were not in the path of totality.
During the weekend the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft and the ODNR Division of Wildlife provided more than 300 programs for visitors to enjoy as they counted down to the eclipse.
ODNR was proud to partner with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) to provide LightSound devices at 30 locations in the path of totality. These devices converted sunlight into audible tones, allowing users to perceive changes as the moon eclipsed the sun.
The ODNR Division of Wildlife also encouraged people to log their wildlife observations through the iNaturalist Citizen Science Research Project and provided a digital field guide for nocturnal animals.
As ODNR celebrates its 75th anniversary, the department will continue to provide fun opportunities to explore the outdoors while working to protect its natural wonders.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.