After the non-native Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) was discovered at some Ohio State Parks in western Ohio, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ (ODNR) Division of Forestry and Ohio State Parks formed a partnership to remove the affected ash trees.

“The Division of Forestry brings a level of expertise to this project that allows these infested trees to be removed safely, quickly and in a cost-effective way from these state parks,” said ODNR Deputy Director Glen Cobb. “While it is disappointing to lose the ash trees, their removal is necessary to protect the safety of our visitors, which is our biggest priority.”

According to Gregg Maxfield, ODNR northern district forest manager, approximately 700-800 ash trees will be removed from Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, Indian Lake State Park and Lake Loramie State Park.

The ODNR Division of Forestry started working on removing trees from Indian Lake State Park on Dec. 11 before starting at Grand Lake St. Marys State Park. According to Maxfield, the tree removal at Grand Lake St. Marys and Lake Loramie will be completed, weather-permitting, by the end of this week. He anticipates removal of the trees from the three state parks will be finished by early January.

The leftover wood from the trees is free to any individual at each of the three state parks in designated areas from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days a week. All interested individuals should contact the park offices for more information. It is recommended that firewood from the ash trees be burned locally by April.

The park managers for the three state parks are encouraging people to participate in the Adopt-a-Tree program or donate a tree to replace the ash trees that will be removed. People interested in adopting a tree, giving a financial gift or donating a tree may contact the individual park offices for more information.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.com.

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