POWELSON WILDLIFE AREA
Powelson Wildlife Area is a 2,729-acre state wildlife area located 4milesnorth of Zanesville.The property is in Muskingum county.
History and Purpose
Acquisition of the Powelson Wildlife Area began in 1958and continued through 2003. The property was acquired using unidentified state funds. Wildlife Restoration federal funding was used to acquire the property.
The Powelson Wildlife Area is a piece of land located in Athens County, Ohio. The area was named after James G. Powelson, who was a respected wildlife biologist and the first division leader of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' Division of Wildlife.
The history of the Powelson Wildlife Area dates back to 1950 when the Ohio Division of Wildlife acquired the land. The primary purpose of acquiring this area was to establish a wildlife sanctuary and habitat for game species. The area spans approximately 4,700 acres and is predominantly forested.
Since its establishment, the Powelson Wildlife Area has gone through various ecological restoration projects and management efforts aimed at enhancing wildlife populations and conserving native habitats. These projects include habitat improvement, wetland restoration, and the reintroduction of threatened and endangered species.
Over the years, the Powelson Wildlife Area has become an important destination for wildlife enthusiasts, hunters, and outdoor recreational activities. It offers opportunities for hunting deer, turkey, squirrel, and other game species during their respective seasons, as well as fishing in designated areas.
The area is also open for non-consumptive recreational activities such as bird watching, hiking, and nature photography. Its diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and open fields, attract a wide range of bird species, making it a popular birding spot for enthusiasts.
The Powelson Wildlife Area serves as an educational resource, offering interpretive signage and public outreach programs to promote wildlife conservation and management. The Ohio Division of Wildlife periodically conducts research and studies within this area to gain a better understanding of the local ecosystems and wildlife populations.
The Powelson Wildlife Area's history showcases the importance of preserving and managing natural habitats for the benefit of wildlife and the enjoyment of outdoor enthusiasts.