Governor DeWine Releases Public Safety in State Parks Working Group Report

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On August 21, Governor Mike DeWine released recommendations from the Public Safety in Ohio State Parks Working Group.

Governor DeWine created the working group in 2025 after vetoing a provision in the state operating budget that would have required the Ohio Department of Natural Resources,  without additional appropriation, to reimburse the local government for emergency response services provided at South Bass Island State Park.

The Ohio State Parks system welcomes tens of millions of visitors each year and was recently recognized as the No. 1 state park system in the nation. While working group members note that they consider Ohio’s state parks safe due to strong partnerships between local and state first responders, seven recommendations aim to further strengthen emergency response.

“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," said Governor DeWine. "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."

Click here to read the full report.