Newest Natural Resources Officer cadets begin training
Fourteen dedicated cadets began their training last week to become the newest Natural Resources Officers with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft.
“Natural Resources Officers are crucial to enhancing our guests’ experiences,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “We are excited to welcome these cadets, who will receive comprehensive training to ensure they are well-prepared. Their role in maintaining safety and providing excellent customer service is essential to our mission.”
Selected from a competitive pool of 594 applicants, the newest cadets will undergo a rigorous five-month training program at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Peace Officer Basic Training Academy. Upon successful completion, they will commence specialized field training, focusing on essential skills such as water rescues, ATV operation, close-quarters boat navigation and natural resources law.
The cadets will be assigned to specific state park areas upon graduation in January 2025. Here are the future Natural Resources Officers and their hometowns:
David Asterino, Dayton, Ohio
Dawson Bennett, Columbiana, Ohio
Levi Bollen, New Brighton, Pa.
Dakota Braun, Athens, Ohio
Adrianne Cox, Nelsonville, Ohio
William Daneker, Kent, Ohio
Abigail Day, Sardinia, Ohio
Eric Gaskell, Uniontown, Ohio
Skyler Hayes, Little Hocking, Ohio
Andrew Horan, Fairport, N.Y.
Avery Langenderfer, Bucyrus, Ohio
Kenton Nester, Rockbridge, Ohio
Kyle Polack, Valley View, Ohio
Matthew Polcyn, Strongsville, Ohio.
Natural Resources Officers play a crucial role in patrolling Ohio’s state parks, forests, preserves, and waterways. Their responsibilities encompass 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 76 state parks and waterways.
In 2024, join ODNR in celebrating 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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