ODNR Awards Top Conservation Honors

Judge Findley posthumously inducted into Natural Resources Hall of Fame

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) awarded premier honors to the late Judge Guy B. Findley and other leading conservationists who have made outstanding contributions to the protection and enjoyment of the state's natural resources.

ODNR Director Sean D. Logan posthumously inducted Findley into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame in recognition of a life dedicated to conservation. The Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame recognizes a lifetime devoted to the preservation, protection and wise management of Ohio's natural resources.
“Judge Findley was a strong believer in conservation,” said Director Logan. “He believed it was important to take personal action to preserve the outdoors and that environmental education for the next generation is essential.”

The late Judge Guy B. Findley, Elyria, took it upon himself to help preserve land and forests in Lorain County. He purchased 890 acres of land to preserve for future generations to enjoy after noticing the disappearance of forests in his county. Later, he donated the land to the State of Ohio and it became Findley State Forest and, subsequently, Findley State Park.

Judge Findley also planted trees along county roads where the roadsides were eroding due to lack of root support. To make a difference on a larger scale, he became the president of the Ohio Forestry Association and vice president of the American Forestry Association.

Judge Findley attended many schools to speak about conservation issues and participated in the Johnny Appleseed Day programs held in Mansfield, Ohio. Conservation was dear to his heart and he requested that his ashes be scattered over Findley State Park after his death, which was granted. His wife, Jennie, deeded their home to the City of Elyria for use by Elyria Parks and Recreation Department.

Also inducted into the Hall of Fame this year were Helen Black of Cincinnati, Tim Gerber of Worthington and Dean Sheldon, Jr. of Greenwich.

The Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame was established by ODNR in 1966. To date, 145 individuals have been accorded the honor, including the legendary Johnny Appleseed (John Chapman), Ohio-born explorer John Wesley Powell, botanist Lucy Braun and conservationist/novelist Louis Bromfield.

During the awards ceremony, which was held at ODNR headquarters in Columbus, Director Logan also presented Cardinal Awards to Doug Adams of Camden, D’Arcy Egan of Marblehead, Larry Rosche of Kent and Tom Stockdale of Columbus. The Cardinal Award honors individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional awareness and concern for ideals reflected in the department’s mission statement: to ensure a balance between the wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all.