New class of Natural Resources Officer cadets begin training
Training is underway for 10 cadets as they work toward becoming the newest Natural Resources Officers with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft.
The cadets, who were selected from a pool of 326 applicants, started their training on Monday, Jan. 22.
“Natural Resources Officers ensure our guests have a safe and fun time at our parks, forests, nature preserves and waterways,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “These cadets will receive top-notch training before joining our mission to protect our natural wonders and the people who visit them.”
Cadets will take on five months of training in the state peace officer program through the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Those who have already served previously in Ohio law enforcement will proceed to field training.
Following completion of the state peace officer training program, all the cadets will enter a new phase of training tailored to the needs of a Natural Resources Officer, such as water rescues, ATV use, close quarters boat navigation and natural resources law.
The newest Natural Resources Officers, listed here with their hometowns, will graduate in July 2024:
Casey Bogus, Brecksville, Ohio
Michael Chandler, Oregon, Ohio
Memphis Cutshall, Fresno, Ohio
Joseph Estepp, Hilliard, Ohio
Konner Logston, Portage, Ohio
Michael Porter, Loveland, Ohio
Jackson Schultz, Mansfield, Ohio
Mitchell Sturm, Sylvania, Ohio
Kelsey Witko, Hebron, Ky.
Megan Zdybowicz, Westerville, Ohio.
One of the 10 cadets, Michael Chandler, has already been commissioned and will be able to begin field training immediately.
Following graduation, these cadets will be assigned to a specific state park area.
Natural Resources Officers patrol Ohio’s state parks, forests, preserves and waterways. Their duties include law enforcement, public service, education and public relations.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education and conservation of Ohio’s 75 state parks and waterways.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.