Who we are: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is committed to its mission “To ensure a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all.” Our agency embraces the insightful use of our natural resources to assure the continued safety, happiness and prosperity of Ohio’s people. ODNR owns and manages state parks, state forests, state nature preserves and wildlife areas. We license all hunting, fishing and watercraft; oversee and permit all mineral extraction, monitor dam safety, manage water resources and serve as