About

Our mission is to conserve Portage County’s natural heritage and provide opportunities for its appreciation and enjoyment.


Who We Are

The Portage Park District is an independent political subdivision of the State of Ohio formed in 1991 with its jurisdiction covering all of Portage County. Although it is independent of the County government, the Park District utilizes the services of the Portage County Auditor, Treasurer, and Prosecutor, and has received some financial support from the Portage County General Fund upon the discretion of the Portage County Commissioners. It is governed by an unpaid, three to five-member Board of Park Commissioners appointed by Portage County Probate Judge according to Ohio Revised Code Section 1545.

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Park District Goals

Graphic of RibbonConservation

Conserving historic sites and natural areas to protect water quality, scenic landscapes, wildlife habitat and the many benefits nature provides.

 

Graphic of piece of paper with a folded upper right corner and bars representing placeholder textEducation

Providing nature education and outdoor recreation programs for all ages.

 


Graphic of Person riding a BicycleRecreation

Creating public parks and trails across Portage County for healthy recreation in a natural setting, all year long.

 

Graphic of 3 links of a chainCommunity Partnerships

Working with public and private organizations, donors and volunteers to efficiently create and manage your county parks.
 

Funding

The Portage Park District has received over $9 million worth of grants and donations over the past 15 years. Starting in 2015, the majority of its operations and improvement funds come from a ½ mill property tax that voters approved in 2014 which generates $1.6 million/year for 10 years. In addition to the tax levy, grants and donations, other sources of funding include Local Government Funds from the State of Ohio, rentals, and royalties.