OHIO — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is preparing for the Ohio State Fair, offering activities ranging from interactions with wildlife to archery and air gun shooting. 

ODNR will be set up at the Natural Resources Park, which fairgoers can find by following the paw prints of Smokey Bear throughout the fairgrounds.

The Ohio State Fair begins July 24 and runs through Aug. 4.

“We always look forward to coming together as a department during the Ohio State Fair because it allows us to proudly exhibit the beauty of Ohio’s natural resources in a fun and exciting way,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “It’s a great time to share our passion of education and conservation, while celebrating our anniversary."

ODNR will celebrate its 75th anniversary on July 25 starting at 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the "ODNR Birthday Bash" which will be held at Governor's Grove, next to the Kayak Pond and the Pavillion.

There will be an exhibit for visitors to get hands-on experience with macroinvertebrates, crayfish and snails for example. Visitors can learn the important role the small creatures play in monitoring stream health.

Rock lovers will also enjoy the new "Minerals Are ReMARKABLE" coloring display where they learn about Ohio minerals and mining practices.

The wildlife boardwalk, aviary and butterfly house will also be open and a 15-foot animatronic Smokey Bear will be present. ODNR will celebrate Smokey's 80th birthday at the exhibit on Aug. 2 at 1 p.m.

The Natural Resources Park Ampitheater will also feature the Great Lakes Timber Show amongst its dscheduled entertainment, which is an opportunity to shocase lumberjack skills. There will also be contests like the turkey call competition which visitors can participate in.

Additonally, the bluegill fishing pond will be available for kids ages 14 and younger. Fairgoers can also float on the kayak pond.