This act was amended in 1976 to create within Ohio Department of Natural Resources the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, which established and administers a statewide system of nature preserves and wild, scenic and recreational rivers. The Division has the legal authority to manage and protect such lands and waters for education, scientific use and public visitation. Nature Preserves Nature preserves are legally protected natural areas representing the finest examples of Ohio's original landscape. They vary in size from less then one acre to many hundreds of acres. However, it is ecological of geological significance, not size, which determines whether a site is worthy of a state nature preserve designation.
Nature preserves vary in the degree to which they can tolerate public use.
State nature preserves are intended to be used primarily for research, education and low impact activities such as nature study and appreciation, bird watching, hiking and photography. Besides providing an upspoiled setting in which to study nature, natural areas are havens for numerous raree plants and animals. They are living museums of biological diversity, possessing a wealthy of genetic material which may prove to be of value to humankind. Gift Individuals and corporations may donate money or land to the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. Other accepted methods of land preservation through donation are bequests of land, bargain sales and conservation easements.