By 1812Blockhouse
Ohioans have a unique opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts simply by checking a box on their state income tax return. Donations made through Ohio’s State Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers Fund or the Wildlife Diversity Fund help the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) protect and restore the state’s rich natural heritage. These funds directly support the preservation of diverse ecosystems, from forests and prairies to wetlands and rivers, ensuring that native plant and wildlife species continue to thrive.
Funding Conservation: Protecting Ohio’s Natural Landscapes
Donations to the State Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers Fund provide essential support for ODNR’s Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. The fund protects Ohio’s 147 state nature preserves and 16 state scenic rivers, safeguarding unique ecosystems that harbor rare and endangered species. It also aids in ecological management efforts, including the removal of invasive species that threaten fragile habitats.
In 2024, tax donations played a critical role in the establishment of two new state nature preserves in Columbiana and Vinton counties, marking an important milestone in habitat protection. Additionally, ODNR designated Raccoon Creek as Ohio’s 16th state scenic river—the first addition to the program in six years. Contributions also support accessibility improvements at popular sites such as Blackhand Gorge and Clifton Gorge, ensuring that more Ohioans can experience and appreciate these protected areas.
Wildlife Diversity Fund: Supporting Species at Risk
The Division of Wildlife’s Wildlife Diversity Fund depends largely on donations to sustain restoration projects for Ohio’s most vulnerable wildlife. Past contributions have helped reintroduce species like lake sturgeon, freshwater mussels, eastern hellbenders, and bald eagles. Additionally, funds have supported the distribution of free educational materials, including field guides and posters, to foster public awareness about Ohio’s native species.
One species that greatly benefits from the Wildlife Diversity Fund is the monarch butterfly. Donations have enabled the Division of Wildlife to collaborate with the Ohio Pollinator Habitat Initiative to expand monarch-friendly habitats. By collecting and distributing milkweed seed pods—the sole host plant for monarch caterpillars—the program supports the recovery of this crucial pollinator and other beneficial insects.
How to Donate and Make a Difference
Ohio taxpayers can support these conservation efforts by making a donation when filing their 2024 state income tax return. To contribute, taxpayers can enter an amount on line 26b for the Wildlife Diversity Fund or line 26e for the State Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers Fund on the IT 1040 form. Donations made in early 2025 will be considered deductible contributions for that tax year.
By choosing to donate, Ohioans can help ensure that the state’s scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife continue to be protected for future generations. For more information, visit ODNR’s natural areas and preserves donation webpage or the wildlife conservation donation website.
Source: ODNR
