Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today released the recommendations from the Public Safety in Ohio State Parks Working Group. The Governor established this group in 2025 after vetoing a state operating budget provision that would have required the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to reimburse local governments for emergency services at South Bass Island State Park without additional funding.
Ohio's state park system, recently recognized as the nation's best, hosts tens of millions of visitors annually. While members of the working group affirm the parks are safe due to strong partnerships between state and local first responders, seven recommendations have been put forth to further strengthen emergency response capabilities.
Governor DeWine said, "We know that Ohio's state parks are safe, but as with any forested area, body of water, or nature trail, there are always risks associated with exploring the great outdoors. The recommendations in this report will serve as an important guide to help ensure that state and local first responders can access resources to provide public safety services in Ohio's state parks."