Press Release

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ODNR Set to Appeal Court Decision that Threatens Sawmill Wetlands

Ohio Environmental Council, September 20, 2016

Governor John Kasich, Attorney General Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources confirmed today they will appeal an unjust court decision ordering the state to turn over a 17-acre state wildlife area to a private commercial developer.

Thousands of citizens have called on the administration to appeal the decision and, protect one of the few remaining forested wetlands within the Columbus I-270 corridor. The Sawmill State Wildlife Education Area is home to numerous plant and animal species. Surrounded by a shopping center and apartments, the wetland is a rare natural area in an urban setting where nature lovers can watch wildlife and the change of seasons.

In response to the forthcoming appeal, Heather Taylor-Miesle, Executive Director of the Ohio Environmental Council issued the following statement:

“Thanks to Gov. Kasich, Attorney General Mike DeWine, and the Ohio DNR, the state of Ohio is continuing the fight to protect and preserve this land for the public. Thousands of citizens are demanding that our state leaders do all they can to protect this natural gem. Today, those voices were heard loud and clear. We will continue to work tirelessly with the public to save the Sawmill Wetlands for current and future generations.”

For more information on Sawmill Wetlands and the Ohio Environmental Council’s ongoing efforts to protect it, visit www.theoec.org