The House Natural Resources Committee began hearings on the Trails to Tails Act, according to a Mar. 9 announcement from State Representative Justin Pizzulli. The proposed legislation, House Bill 641, would require the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to conduct two comprehensive studies: one on the feasibility of reintroducing elk and another on expanding side-by-side trail riding opportunities across Ohio.
The bill is significant as it aims to explore new avenues for tourism and economic development in rural areas while considering environmental and community impacts. The studies will examine factors such as habitat suitability, agricultural effects, disease risk, roadway safety, and long-term management for elk reintroduction. Public meetings and written input from local stakeholders—including county commissioners, farm bureaus, hunters, conservation groups, and tourism organizations—will be required.
“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 focus on evaluating the creation and expansion of side-by-side riding opportunities. This includes assessing environmental impact, erosion control measures, safety standards, enforcement protocols, and emergency access.
“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.”
A $3 million appropriation is included in the bill to fund these studies. The Trails to Tails Act awaits further consideration by the committee.
Pizzulli has prioritized defending life, safeguarding Second Amendment rights, and advancing economic prosperity in Southern Ohio according to the official site. He serves as state representative for the 90th Ohio House District according to his official biography, covering Scioto and Adams counties as well as parts of Brown County. His work operates within state government representation according to his official biography.
