We introduce a new laser detection scheme for the OH radical that employs 1+1 X(2)Pi reversible arrow D(2)Sigma(-) resonance enhanced excitation to a high-lying Rydberg state followed by field ionization. We place an upper limit of 8 ns on the lifetime of the D(2)Sigma(-) state. We also correct published values for T-0 for the D(2)Sigma(-) state, provide a new value for the energy of the 6s(1)11p(1 3)P(1)(0) state of Hg (81 807.6 cm(-1)), and measure the rotational temperature of OH radicals produced in the photolysis of formic acid at 212.6 nm to be 300 +/- 50 K. Our REMPI probe might be suited to studies that require both sensitive detection of the OH radical combined with accurate kinetic energy information.