Three others recognized for promoting conservation
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) today awarded its highest honor to three individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the protection and enjoyment of the state's natural resources. Inducted into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame were lepidopterist Dr. Jerome Wiedmann and birders Dick Tuttle and Dick Phillips.
“Ohio has a long, proud history of conservation,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “These individuals have had a significant, positive impact on the wildlife and natural resources of our state, and it’s our privilege to honor their lifetime achievements.”
The agency also presented its annual Cardinal Award for conservation achievement to arachnologist Dr. Richard Bradley, botanist Jim McCormac, and wildlife educator Manon VanSchoyck.
ODNR Director Mary Mertz presented the awards during a ceremony at the agency's Fountain Square Complex in Columbus.
The Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame was established by ODNR in 1966. To date, 172 individuals have been accorded the honor, which recognizes a lifetime devoted to the preservation, protection, and wise management of Ohio's natural resources. Previous Hall of Fame honorees include the legendary Johnny Appleseed (John Chapman), Ohio-born explorer John Wesley Powell, botanist Lucy Braun, and conservationist and novelist Louis Bromfield.
The ODNR Cardinal Award honors individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional awareness and concern for ideals reflected in the department's mission statement: to ensure a balance between the wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all.
For more information on today’s recipients, including biographies, please visit ohiodnr.gov/news/post/odnr-2019halloffameandcardinalaward-dec2019.
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 Communications
(614) 265-6860