Pickaway County, Ohio — A statewide deer donation effort coordinated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is making a significant local impact in Pickaway County, where donated venison was processed and prepared to help feed families across Ohio.
During the weeklong deer gun hunting season, ODNR’s Division of Wildlife helped collect 3,350 pounds of processed venison, much of which was handled at the Ohio Penal Industries (OPI) meat processing facility at the Pickaway Correctional Institution (PCI). The partnership ensured donated deer were professionally processed and safely distributed to food banks and local pantries.
“It’s thanks to Ohio’s hunters from across our great state that families will have the option to pick up venison at a local food pantry,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “It’s truly amazing what we can accomplish when we come together with a common goal.”
This year’s donation days marked a collaborative effort between ODNR and the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC), highlighting Pickaway County’s role in addressing food insecurity statewide. So far, 1,150 pounds of venison processed in Pickaway County has been distributed through the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, benefiting regions served by the West Ohio Foodbank, Mid-Ohio Food Collective, and Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio.
“The meat processing center provides a great opportunity for our incarcerated population to gain valuable workforce experience,” said ODRC Director Annette Chambers-Smith. “This partnership with ODNR allows them to apply those skills while giving back to Ohio during the holiday season.”
In total, 88 deer were transported for processing, with approximately 2,200 additional pounds of venison currently being prepared for distribution. Each donated deer can provide up to 200 meals, making the program a vital resource for families in need.
ODNR has announced additional deer donation days that coincide with upcoming hunting seasons, giving hunters more opportunities to contribute:
Deer Gun Hunting Weekend
December 20–21, 2–8 p.m.
- Killdeer Plains
- Delaware Shooting Range
- Hebron Fish Hatchery
- Hardin County Fairgrounds
Muzzleloader Season
January 3–4, 2–8 p.m.
- Killdeer Plains
- Delaware Shooting Range
- Hebron Fish Hatchery
- Hardin County Fairgrounds
All donated deer must be properly tagged and checked, and donations count toward county and statewide bag limits. More information is available at wildohio.gov.
Local officials say Pickaway County’s involvement underscores how rural communities and state partnerships can play a critical role in supporting food pantries and families during the winter months.
