COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a continued commitment to bolster safety measures on Ohio's waterways, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has allocated a total of $578,020 to 24 agencies across 22 Ohio counties. These funds, provided by the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft, aim to fortify local marine patrol units and elevate recreational boating experiences.

"As boating continues to thrive in Ohio, ODNR depends on collaboration with local community partners to provide essential watercraft-related services," ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. "These grants empower local law enforcement agencies to safeguard the well-being of boaters, canoeists, kayakers in Ohio’s lakes and rivers."

The 2024 Marine Patrol Assistance grants help local law enforcement agencies provide emergency responses to boating-related incidents, conduct routine waterway patrols, and procure safety equipment for deployment on marine patrol vessels.

This year’s grant recipients span across the Lake Erie and Ohio River regions, as well as in counties boasting multiple inland lakes. See the complete list of recipients by county.

In Ohio, boating continues to be a popular outdoor activity, with 649,390 registered boats in 2023. Furthermore, paddle sports have emerged as a notable area of growth among water sports enthusiasts. Last year, Ohioans registered 318,984 paddle craft.

As the number of visitors to Ohio’s lakes and rivers continues to rise, Marine Patrol Assistance Grants play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of Ohio’s boaters. Essential boating safety information is available at watercraft.ohiodnr.gov.

Administered by the Division of Parks and Watercraft, Ohio’s boating and scenic rivers programs receive funding to support local marine patrol units from the state’s Waterways Safety Fund. This fund is sustained by the state motor fuel tax, watercraft registration and titling fees, and contributions from the U.S. Coast Guard.

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.

In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 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 our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.