Local wildlife area grows by 6,898 acres

McCONNELSVILLE, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife announced the purchase of an additional 6,898 acres at Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area in southeast Ohio. The acquisition brings the total acreage of Ohio’s largest wildlife area to 54,525 acres of public land for hunting, fishing, trapping, birding, and outdoor recreation.

“The latest addition to Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area adds vibrant lands to an area already well known for fabulous hunting and fishing,” Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker said. “We are proud to expand outdoor recreation opportunities for all Ohioans and protect wildlife habitats. Thank you to Ohio’s sportsmen and women who came together to promote and support this purchase.”

The Division of Wildlife’s latest acquisition at Appalachian Hills is the final installment in a series of additions that have taken place since 2020. Funding for the cumulative purchases came from $68 million in capital improvement and wildlife funds.

“The acquisition was made possible thanks to the support of Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly so people can now enjoy in perpetuity this expanse in the great outdoors,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz.

Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area lies in Guernsey, Morgan, Muskingum, and Noble counties, near McConnelsville. It connects a network of habitats between Jesse Owens State Park in addition to The Wilds, an outlet of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Located in the unglaciated portion of Ohio, the area’s terrain is varied and rugged, dissected by many small streams and rolling hills. It is mostly forestland but also has abundant grasslands and some wetlands.

Those interested in visiting Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area can find maps, species information, fishing tips, and additional resources at wildohio.gov. Download the HuntFish OH mobile app for free resources on the go.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Local wildlife area grows by 6,898 acres