Author: Adria Bergeron

The Fourth of July holiday weekend is one of the busiest times of the year on the water, with millions of boaters across the United States taking to lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. This increased activity often leads to a rise in boating incidents and fatalities.¹ To address this issue, Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD), in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the U.S. Coast Guard, will participate in Operation Dry Water, a nationwide awareness and enforcement campaign, from July 4–6. In the days leading up to and during the campaign, law enforcement agencies will prioritize educating boaters about safe practices, emphasizing the importance of sober boating to help ensure a safer experience for all recreational boaters. MWCD lake rangers will offer vessel safety checks on Friday, July 4 from 2-4pm at Atwood, Seneca, and Piedmont lakes at the public boat launch ramps.

Alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities.² As part of Operation Dry Water, MWCD will work to raise public awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs—for both operators and passengers. Boaters can expect to see an increased law enforcement presence on the water, including sobriety checkpoints and targeted patrols. The priority during this period will be public safety, and officers will take immediate action to remove impaired boaters who pose a risk to themselves or others.

“Boating under the influence continues to be a serious and preventable problem,” said Patrick Brockmeier, MWCD chief ranger. “Our goal is to create a safer environment for all recreational boaters, paddlers, and waterway users. That’s why MWCD is joining agencies across the country to prevent incidents, injuries, and fatalities caused by impaired boating.”

Whether you’re operating a vessel or riding as a passenger, boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs endangers everyone on the water.³ Operating a vessel while impaired is illegal on all bodies of water and can result in serious injuries, fatalities, and legal consequences. In Ohio, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. MWCD reminds boaters to always boat sober and wear a life jacket when on or near the water.

Operation Dry Water is a year-round initiative dedicated to increasing awareness and enforcement of boating under the influence laws. The campaign aims to reduce alcohol- and drug-related boating incidents and fatalities by educating the public and increasing law enforcement visibility on the water. Visit operationdrywater.org or mwcd.org for more information about boating under the influence.

^1-2 2023 U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics

³ 2019 Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Research Report

NEW PHILADELPHIA, OH — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is excited to announce the launch of free public Wi-Fi at Tappan Lake Park. The project is set to be completed later this month, and is the second campground within the district to offer this amenity. Wi-Fi was introduced at Atwood Lake Park in 2024. This new amenity will be available to all registered campers and day-use park guests, offering a modern convenience in one of Ohio’s most scenic outdoor destinations.

The Wi-Fi expansion is part of MWCD’s ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experiences across its parks and campgrounds while supporting the evolving needs of today’s outdoor enthusiasts. Whether guests are looking to stay connected for work, keep in touch with family and friends, or stream entertainment from their campsite, the new service ensures that reliable connectivity is just a click away.

“We’re thrilled to bring free Wi-Fi to Tappan Lake Park,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “As more people seek a balance between outdoor recreation and digital connectivity, this upgrade allows us to meet those expectations while preserving the natural beauty and recreational value our parks are known for.”

Tappan Lake Park, located in Harrison County, is a popular destination for camping, boating, hiking, and family-friendly outdoor activities. With the addition of free Wi-Fi, the park further solidifies its reputation as a premier location for both adventure and relaxation.

For more information about Tappan Lake Park or to make camping reservations, visit www.mwcd.org.

NEW PHILADELPHIA, OH – The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) broke ground on a new facility in New Philadelphia that will consolidate its central office operations in a single location. The new facility is expected to be opened toward the end of next year.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District has proudly represented the region for nearly 91 years and is honored to call New Philadelphia home.

The main office building located on 3^rd St. NW in New Philadelphia has served the organization well, however, after an addition and several upgrades over the years, the building is no longer large enough to hold a growing staff (and equipment used to maintain our lands, parks, and marinas). Staff including administration, engineering, IT, conservation, natural resources, recreation, marketing, and programming are currently divided between three locations.

“The community’s support for this project has been overwhelming and we appreciate that so many local leaders were on hand to celebrate the start of it. Not only will it help MWCD streamline central office operations by having everything under a single roof instead of divided between three different locations, but, more important, this building will serve as a model for sustainable construction,” said Ron Dziedzicki, MWCD board chair.

“We are thrilled about MWCD’s continued investment in our community and the benefits its lakes, parks, and marinas bring to the economy of all of eastern Ohio,” Joel Day, mayor of the City of New Philadelphia. “This project not only strengthens our city’s connection to MWCD’s mission but also provides valuable public amenities, such as expanded trails and a dedicated space for natural resources education and community meetings. I can’t wait to see it completed and all the great things that will happen here.”

In addition to MWCD’s administrative offices, the approximately 35,000-square-foot building will feature a meeting area for up to 125 people, which will allow for further engagement with residents and lake users. A separate building will contain a service garage for MWCD’s vehicles, a water lab, and a sign shop. The site will include trails that connect to the existing trail system at the Kent State University Tolloty Technology Incubator and a new dog park for public use.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the facility will retain stormwater for landscape irrigation and the service building will generate some of its own electricity via rooftop solar panels. The site will also be equipped with four electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

“For more than 90 years, MWCD’s public mission has been a powerful motivator for the men and women who choose to work here and share their talents to support our work for Eastern Ohio. In addition to being a more productive place for the team to work together, this facility is a symbol of MWCD’s further investment in the region we serve. I’m grateful for the support we have received as we start this initiative, and I look forward to bringing it online soon so it can serve as a hub for community engagement, education, and collaboration,” said Craig Butler, executive director.

Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2026, with MWCD staff moving in shortly thereafter.

For more information on MWCD and updates on the headquarters project, visit www.mwcd.org or follow us on social media.

New Philadelphia, OH – The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is one of Ohio’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation, maintaining over 57,000 acres of land and water. Adventure seekers can enjoy 42 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as water trails at MWCD lakes. Trail users can take advantage of a new collaboration with the innovative OuterSpatial app! The app will make outdoor adventures easier, safer, and more enjoyable by integrating local trail information and resources into the app.

OuterSpatial is a mobile app designed to allow visitors to embark on their adventure with confidence through real-time data, detailed maps, events, challenges, and trail status information. With its user-friendly interface and interactive features, OuterSpatial helps users discover new trails, plan their trips, and stay informed about conditions that could impact outdoor activities. It is free to use and available for both android and iPhone devices from the Google Play store, or Apple App store.

“We’re thrilled to partner with OuterSpatial to enhance the outdoor adventure experience for our community,” said Pete Novotny, Chief of Recreation. “This collaboration represents a significant step in bringing more people into nature and to our lakes, while helping them explore responsibly and empowering them with the tools they need to enjoy the trails to the fullest.”

To share the app and celebrate, MWCD is hosting a kick-off event with hiking and soup at Atwood Lake Park on Saturday, March 29 from 1 to 3pm! Meet at the Atwood Park Event Center to learn about the app, download it, and join a guided hike or explore the trails on your own. After your hike, warm up and enjoy delicious soup. Enjoy door prizes and giveaways throughout the event! Prizes provided by Ultimate Upland. Registration is strongly encouraged to ensure enough food for the crowd. Participants can also purchase a souvenir soup bowl for $5 each. Register online at www.MWCD.org/tickets.

Atwood Lake Park is located at 9500 Lakeview Rd NE in Mineral City, OH. Participants are reminded to dress for the weather. Trails are available at all MWCD lakes for guests to enjoy nature and exercise year-round. For more information about upcoming events and trail maps visit www.mwcd.org.

Over $10 million in Grants Have Gone to 156 Projects in 18 Counties

$1,305,707 in New Grants Approved to Help Prevent Flooding and Improve Water Quality

This year, the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is celebrating the 15^th anniversary of its Partners in Watershed Management (PWM) grants program by awarding $1,305,707 in new grants to 11 projects that will support flood mitigation and water quality improvement and conservation across Eastern Ohio.

“Eastern Ohio is blessed with talented, committed professionals and organizations that share a common mission: preserving and managing the Muskingum River watershed to protect life, property and our natural resources. For 15 years, MWCD has shared its resources with dozens of these organizations to invest over $10 million in strategic efforts to both reduce flooding and drive conservation. They have made a difference, and we look forward to another 15 years—and more—of working together,” said MWCD Executive Director Craig Butler.

Since its inception in 2009, PWM has provided over $10.7 million in grant funding for 156 projects in 18 counties across the Muskingum River watershed, the largest watershed contained entirely within Ohio and a watershed covering almost a third of the state. The program is highly competitive with a multi-step review process to ensure that highly effective projects receive grant dollars.  All applications are reviewed by MWCD staff and a select group of volunteer industry experts prior to the Chief Engineer and Chief of Conservation recommending applications for approval to the Executive Director and the Board of Directors.

Here’s what others are saying about PWM and its 15^th anniversary:

“We have received three impactful PWM Grants over the last several years and are so grateful for the partnership with MWCD. The first funded our Aquatic Education Trailer, teaching water quality through a visual contrast of healthy and polluted streams. Since 2011, hundreds of students have benefited. The second grant supported water testing in farm tile drainage, leading some farmers to reduce fertilizer use without impacting yield. The latest grant funds our ‘Grow Native’ project, providing a small no-till drill to help landowners establish pollinator habitats.” – Lisa Crock, district administrator, Muskingum Soil and Water Conservation District.

“The PWM Grant Program has been an instrumental part of maintaining and improving water quality in the Muskingum River.  Rural Action has received eight PWM grants since the program began, which has supported everything from outreach and education, to research on endangered species. The most exciting outcome of one of our projects was when the first reintroduced eastern hellbender to have ever been found reproducing in the wild, was discovered in a nest box that was installed with PWM funding. We are so thankful for the support.” – Nate Schlater, senior director of ecological restoration, Rural Action.

“The support from MWCD’s PWM grant program was instrumental in advancing our flood mapping efforts in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the USGS. This funding allowed us to gain critical data and insights that helped us better protect our community from flood risks and plan for a more resilient future. We are grateful for MWCD’s commitment to improving watershed management across the region.” –Bobbie Beshara, city manager, City of Rittman.

This year’s projects are:

Organizations interested in future rounds of funding are encouraged to contact MWCD to discuss their projects at least 30 days prior to the application deadline of September 1, 2025, to learn more about the application process and have their applications preliminarily screened for eligibility.  Please contact Lynn Gilland, Administrative Specialist at 330-556-4817 or by email at [email protected].  Further information about the PWM program can be found at www.MWCD.org.

Applications open for research, community and innovation grants as well as fellowships

NELSONVILLE, Ohio – The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO), through its Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity, announces new funding opportunities to advance conservation, environmental stewardship and the greater well-being of Appalachian Ohio.

Thanks to a transformative $5 million investment from the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD), funding is available to support community projects, scholarships, fellowships, research and innovation in the areas of conservation and environmental stewardship.

“We’re grateful to the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District for its game-changing investment in our region’s permanent capacity to advance conservation and environmental stewardship,” said Cara Dingus Brook, FAO president and CEO. “MWCD’s gift is the largest environmental stewardship endowment the Foundation has received to date, and it represents a significant investment in the well-being of our people and communities.”

In addition to giving financially, MWCD will also lend its deep expertise in the areas of environmental stewardship and conservation.

“We believe that partnerships between groups are crucial to advancing sustainability and environmental stewardship in Appalachia,” said Craig Butler, MWCD executive director. “By working together, we can leverage our collective resources and expertise to create a more significant impact and support a diverse range of projects and initiatives, from local community efforts to large-scale research and innovation.”

A total of $125,000 in grant funding is available within the 32 counties of Appalachian Ohio and seven additional counties served by MWCD. It’s possible because of MWCD’s gift – and other gifts from generous donors who helped to establish FAO’s Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, including Nicolozakes Trucking & Construction Inc., Ohio CAT and American Electric Power.

Available opportunities:

• Community grants to support locally driven projects that preserve and enhance our natural environment. Public and nonprofit organizations as well as individuals or groups working with a fiscal sponsor are eligible to apply.
• Scholarships to support individuals seeking degrees or continuing education in ecology, forestry, wildlife ecology or related natural resource fields, as well as skilled trades, vocational and technical training in fields that integrate and support green energy technology, sustainable agriculture and land stewardship.
• Fellowships to provide two years of support (including a financial stipend and mentorship) for individuals who pioneer positive change through projects that address environmental challenges and promote biodiversity conservation.
• Innovation grants to invest in new and creative approaches that result in environmental good while encouraging environmental stewardship.
• Research grants to support studies that address critical gaps in our understanding of our diverse ecosystems and contribute to the conservation and enhancement of aquatic biodiversity and healthy habitats.

Additional information and funding applications are available at www.AppalachianOhio.org/EnvironmentalStewardship.

FAO’s Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity brings donors and doers together to ensure the people of Appalachian Ohio can experience our region’s natural beauty, both today and for generations to come. To date, the Environmental Stewardship Pillar has invested more than $1.6 million in grants and scholarships throughout Appalachian Ohio.

For more information on these funding opportunities and how you can support or create opportunities for the people and communities of Appalachian Ohio, visit www.AppalachianOhio.org, email [email protected] or call 740.753.1111.

About the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio

The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio is a regional community foundation serving the 32 counties of Appalachian Ohio. A 501(c)(3) public charity, the Foundation creates opportunities for Appalachian Ohio’s people and communities by inspiring and supporting philanthropy. For more information, visit www.AppalachianOhio.org and follow FAO on Facebook and Instagram.

Land preserved in perpetuity through conservation collaboration.

(Coshocton County, OH) — December 17, 2024 — In multiple stages over five years, Western Reserve Land Conservancy and Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) have forever protected over 3,990 acres in Coshocton County. The land is now owned by MWCD. Starting with the 1,827-acre Coshocton Forest acquisition in January 2020, these efforts continued with acquiring the 933-acre Coshocton Forest Extension in December 2021 and the 609-acre Turkey Ridge Preserve in November 2023. Most recently, the 622-acre Turkey Creek Preserve acquisition was finalized in August 2024.

Located in the Muskingum River Watershed, the conserved properties span a reclaimed coal mining area and boast successional hardwood forests, old field habitat, almost 400 acres of sprawling ponds and high-quality wetlands, and over 50,000 linear feet of streams. More than 450 plant and animal species call the properties home, including several rare and state-listed species. An Ohio endangered moss and two Ohio endangered bat species have been documented as well.

In addition to preserving these natural spaces, these projects also conserved a significant portion of publicly accessible recreation land. MWCD will manage these properties in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), which owns two large preserves within seven miles of the property, including the 14,615-acre Woodbury Wildlife Area and the 844-acre SIMCO Wildlife Area. Hiking, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, and other passive outdoor recreation activities will be allowed on the property.

Previously, the land was owned by Ohio Franklin Realty, a subsidiary of American Electric Power (AEP). After mining activity ended in the mid-1900s, ODNR managed much of the area for public access as a component of the AEP public ReCreation Land. The conserved area contributes to an approximately 9,600-acre corridor of protected land owned by MWCD in Coshocton County. Applications for additional funding are underway for Phase V of the project, which will help connect the corridor to SIMCO Wildlife Area.

Together, the Land Conservancy and MWCD submitted four successful funding applications to the Clean Ohio Green Space Conservation Fund through the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC). As a result, $10.4 million was awarded for the acquisition of these properties, which are permanently protected by Clean Ohio deed restrictions.

“MWCD is proud to partner with the Western Reserve Land Conservancy and other organizations to protect these vital natural areas,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director.  “We are dedicated to keeping the lands open for public use while also planning to enhance areas to improve recreational experiences. This collaboration ensures these spaces serve both the environment and the community for generations to come.”

“Conservation at this scale doesn’t happen without partnership,” said Hannah Kelling, southwest field director at the Land Conservancy. “Of course, conservation at its core is about human beings partnering with the natural world — recognizing our place in it, our responsibility to it, and our relationships within it. In this case, we have accomplished the conservation of thousands of acres together with MWCD and OPWC because they, too, have embodied this vision from the beginning and have devoted their resources to it. With their help, we are confident that these acres will provide a refuge for both humans and wildlife for decades to come.”

About Western Reserve Land Conservancy:

The nationally accredited Western Reserve Land Conservancy — the largest local land trust in Ohio — provides people throughout Ohio with essential natural assets through land conservation and restoration. To date, the Land Conservancy has permanently preserved 75,000 acres at more than 930 properties; helped create and expand 220 public parks and preserves; led the efforts to create 69 county land banks across Ohio; and planted and distributed more than 16,000 robust trees in Cleveland. For more information, visit wrlandconservancy.org.

About Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District:

The MWCD, a political subdivision of the state, was organized in 1933 to develop and implement a plan to reduce flooding and conserve water for beneficial public uses in the Muskingum River Watershed, the largest wholly contained watershed in Ohio. Since their construction, the 16 reservoirs and dams in the MWCD region have been credited for saving over $8 billion worth of potential property damage from flooding according to the federal government, as well as providing popular recreational opportunities that bolster the region’s economy, garnering more than 5 million visitors annually. A significant portion of the reservoirs are managed by the MWCD, and the dams are managed for flood-risk management by the federal U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). For more information about the MWCD, visit www.mwcd.org and follow the MWCD on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) continues its commitment to providing outdoor recreation opportunities through its vast network of trails, emphasizing their critical role in promoting community well-being, conservation, and environmental education.

The MWCD trail system offers a wide variety of hiking, biking, and equestrian paths that meander through the scenic landscapes of the Muskingum River Watershed. These trails provide opportunities for individuals and families to connect with nature, stay active, and explore Ohio’s rich natural heritage.

MWCD is committed to expanding and improving its trail network to meet the growing demand for outdoor recreational opportunities. As part of this effort, MWCD is seeking community input to develop a Master Trail Plan that will guide the enhancement and expansion of the trail system in the years ahead.

“We believe that trails are essential to the health and vitality of our communities,” said Pete Novotny, MWCD Chief of Recreation. “They offer more than just outdoor fun—they connect people to nature, improve our quality of life, and foster a greater appreciation for conservation.”

For more information about MWCD’s trails or to participate in the ongoing survey to shape future trail development, visit www.mwcd.org. (UPDATE – this survey has closed)

Your participation will help guide the MWCD’s efforts in planning and expanding the trail network in the coming years. Together, we can ensure that our trails continue to be a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) has announced its winter drawdown schedule, an essential annual operation that supports flood control and reservoir maintenance throughout the region. While MWCD lakes attract millions of visitors each year for activities like fishing, boating, camping, and hiking, their primary role is to help protect the Muskingum Watershed from flooding.

Each winter, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) lowers the lake levels temporarily to provide increased flood storage for winter snowmelt and spring rains. This controlled drawdown also allows MWCD staff to complete shoreline stabilization projects and other critical maintenance tasks. The drawdown will begin in early November, with water levels expected to return to normal by February, ensuring the lakes are fully prepared for the next summer season.

The temporary 2024 – 2025 drawdown dates and lake levels are as follows:

Shoreline projects planned for the Winter of 2024 – 2025 include:

• Seneca Lake – A combination of rock riprap and soil lifts with native plantings will be utilized to stabilize a 270-foot long section of steeply eroded shoreline along SR147 near Grant Moore Road, and rock riprap / coir logs will be installed to stabilize approximately 670 feet of eroding shoreline within Seneca Lake Park.
• Atwood Lake – A combination of rock riprap and soil nails will be utilized to stabilize the shoreline and a significant landslide that has occurred in the Area 4 Campground at Atwood Lake Park.  The landslide is approximately 250 feet in length, and the shoreline stabilization work will extend a total of 770 feet.