Controlling Board Approved Release of $900,000 for Blackhand Gorge Nature Preserve

COLUMBUS – State officials announced today that the Blackhand George Nature Preserve located in Newark Ohio will be receiving $900,000 for various improvements to the park. 

The Blackhand Gorge Nature preserve was first designated in 1975 and is made up of 957 acres of land that is operated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The preserve itself is comprised of a gorge that runs from the east to the west following the Licking River. 

The funds allocated from this release will be allocated to help determine and prevent slips on the trills within the preserve. Structures will be added and other measures will be taken to ensure that the trails are kept in wonderful condition. 

“I am pleased to see funds being allocated to the Blackhand Gorge Nature Preserve; the preserve provides a wonderful educational and natural environment for the people of Ohio to enjoy and these funds will allow many more to enjoy all it has to offer for years to come,” said Miller.