Indian Lake gains new ODNR Officer

Ten new Natural Resources Officers (NROs) officially joined the ranks of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) on Thursday, taking their Oath of Office during a commissioning ceremony at ODNR Headquarters in Columbus. The ceremony marked the conclusion of the most recent NRO Training Academy session.

“These new officers are ready to serve the people of Ohio in a truly unique way,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “They will patrol our lakes, forests, and parks, not only protecting these special places, but also ensuring families and visitors can enjoy them safely. Their service is an investment in both our natural resources and the communities that cherish them.”

Natural Resources Officers are commissioned peace officers who protect Ohio’s state parks, forests, nature preserves, and waterways. In addition to enforcing laws, they play a critical role in educating visitors about conservation and boating safety. NROs are also trained to assist in emergencies, including search and rescue operations, natural disasters, and flood response.

“These officers are guardians of both people and places,” said ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft Chief Glen Cobb. “They will spend their careers keeping visitors safe, protecting our natural resources, and being a trusted presence in Ohio’s outdoors. I’m confident this group will bring energy, integrity, and compassion to every community they serve.”

The officers began their journey in January with basic Peace Officer training at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy. They then completed four weeks of specialized instruction on ODNR operations, covering ATV use, vessel operation, communications, advanced firearms, and self-defense.

Now officially commissioned, the officers will continue their training in the field, paired with veteran officers in their assignment areas to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement, resource protection, and community outreach.

Here are the new Natural Resources Officers, along with their hometowns and first assignments:

Patricia Cesario, East Liverpool, Ohio, Beaver Creek State Park
Jakob Dillon, Union Springs, New York, Cleveland Watercraft Office
Dylan Kaylor, Gahanna, Ohio, Alum Creek State Park
Cory Mills, Elyria, Ohio, Sandusky Watercraft Office
Cody Paugh, Painesville, Ohio, Punderson State Park
Jacob Sattelmaier, Creston, Ohio, Mohican State Park
Sophia Schroeder, Put-in-Bay, Ohio, Indian Lake State Park
William Smith, Cleves, Ohio, Hueston Woods State Park
Neil Sofranec, New Middletown, Ohio, Alum Creek State Park
Joel Thompson, Amanda, Ohio, Buckeye Lake State Park
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.