HERE, again, is a long-awaited book. First published in 1979 in hardcover and out- of-print since the early 1980s, it is presented here for the digital age in full-color Adobe Acrobat? format on a CD-ROM. Twenty eight specialists invite the reader to survey in a single volume the whole of Ohio's natural environment. The geologic forces that shaped the state, the colorful plant and animal life of its forests, prairies, hills, lakes and streams, the first people in what is now Ohio'these are only a few of the features that are described.In each chapter maps, drawings and photographs, many of them in color, supplement a readable and nontechnical text. The result is a storehouse of solid information and an excellent reference book while its popular style and striking format make it an exquisite gift for anyone. For young students, it is a gateway to anthropology, geology, climatology, and the whole study of living things. For adults, it opens new worlds of interest. Ohio's Natural Heritage, particularly because of its wide range, the quality of its authorship, and the uniqueness of its approach, continues to meet a long-standing need.Ohio's place in history has been achieved by the use of our rich natural endowment. Our forests, soils, minerals and energy resources, streams, climate, plants and animals have been the foundation upon which our great agricultural and industrial state has developed. This book commemorates and interprets our great natural heritage for all to appreciate and understand.Published in cooperation with The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife and Division of Natural Areas and Preserves.