Ohio's largest remaining undeveloped forest to be preserved.

The State of Ohio plans to purchase the 15,849-acre Vinton Furnace Experimental Forest, representing Ohio's largest, last contiguous forested block still available for permanent protection. Located 75 miles southeast of Columbus, the forest is home to the state's largest known population of bobcats, and is also home to black bears, timber rattlesnakes, cerulean warblers and several rare plant species. Since 1952, land at the Vinton Furnace has been dedicated towards forest use and sustainability research. Since this parcel is just south of Zaleski State Forest, it is unclear at this time how it will affect and expand the trail system. For more information, visit Ohio DNR website >>