House Committee Begins Hearings on Trails to Tails Act

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) is pleased to announce that the House Natural Resources Committee began hearings on the Trails to Tails Act.

House Bill 641 will require the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to conduct two comprehensive studies, one on the feasibility of elk reintroduction and one on expanding side-by-side trail riding opportunities across Ohio.  

First, ODNR will evaluate the overall feasibility, including habitat suitability, agricultural impacts, disease risk, roadway safety, and long-term management capacity, for the reintroduction of elk into Ohio’s state forests and wildlife areas. The study will also require public meetings and written input from county commissioners, farm bureaus, hunters, conservation groups, and tourism organizations, prioritizing local participation.

“Across the country, responsibly managed elk populations have created tourism activity, wildlife viewing, guide services, lodging, and eventually tightly regulated hunting seasons,” said Pizzulli during sponsor testimony. 

The second study will evaluate the creation and expansion of side-by-side riding opportunities across Ohio. ODNR will specifically evaluate the environmental impact, erosion control, safety standards, enforcement protocols, and emergency access to determine feasibility.

“Rural Ohio is actively searching for economic opportunity,” added Pizzulli. “This legislation gives the state a chance to evaluate new tools for tourism, small business development, and outdoor recreation while relying on scientific expertise and local input.”

The legislation includes a $3 million appropriation to conduct the studies.

The Trails to Tails Act awaits further consideration from the House Natural Resources Committee.