October 18, 2005

GRAND-REOPENING CELEBRATION SCHEDULED FOR
MOHICAN-MEMORIAL STATE FOREST FIRE TOWER

COLUMBUS, OH - One of Ohio’s best places to view fall color will again be open to the public with a reopening celebration of the Mohican-Memorial State Forest Fire Tower from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., October 22. The event is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry and the Mohican Chapter of the Forest Fire Lookout Association (FFLA).

“Once an integral part of forest fire protection in the Mohican area more than 60 years ago, the Mohican Fire tower has become a popular viewing destination for the public,” said John Dorka, chief of the Division of Forestry. “This restoration is just in time to allow visitors to enjoy the fall color of the Mohican valley at its peak.”

During the celebration, visitors can learn about the history of the Mohican area from local historians as well as climb to the top of the tower.

The Mohican Chapter of the FFLA, sponsored by Mohican Trails Club, plans to continue restoring and maintaining the tower.

The ODNR Division of Forestry manages 20 state forests covering more than 185,000 acres, spanning parts of 21 counties. Wildfire prevention and education efforts are supported by sales of Smokey Bear license plates , which can be purchased through local deputy registrar offices, on the Internet at OPLATES.com or by calling 1-888-PLATES3 (752-8373).

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For additional news online, check out the ODNR Press Room at Ohiodnr.com

For Further Information Contact:
Frank Corona, ODNR Division of Forestry
(330) 339-2205 x13