COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recognized 13 individuals and organizations Tuesday for their contributions to conservation during a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair’s Natural Resources Park.
The department inducted six people into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame and presented seven Cardinal Awards, honoring those who have made significant contributions to protecting and preserving Ohio’s natural resources.
Gov. Mike DeWine said conservation depends on the dedication of Ohioans working to safeguard the state’s natural resources, while ODNR Director Mary Mertz called the Hall of Fame the department’s highest honor for conservationists.
The 2026 Hall of Fame inductees are Terry Cosby, H. Thomas Bartlett, Pamela Dillon, Bill Frost, Frances Beasley, and Doug Gonzalez. Their accomplishments include leadership in forestry, bird conservation, boating safety, hunter education, environmental stewardship, and orphan oil well restoration.
The 2026 Cardinal Award recipients are Friends of Scioto Brush Creek of Rarden, Dr. Gene Kritsky of Cincinnati, Brewster Rhoads of Cincinnati, Dr. David Klarer of West Milan, Melinda Huntley of Columbus, Jennifer Windus of Mount Vernon, and Matt Misicka of Plain City. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to the wise use and protection of Ohio’s natural resources.
Created in 1966, the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame now includes 206 inductees, while the Cardinal Award has recognized outstanding conservation efforts across the state since 1971.
Last Updated on August 5, 2026 by AVC News
