Author: Grace Rutledge

New Philadelphia, OH (July 15, 2026) — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is inviting families and nature enthusiasts to experience an unforgettable evening at a new event featuring Ohio’s amazing flying mammals! Bat Discovery Night will take place at Clendening Lake Marina on Friday, July 31 from 7 to 11pm. This unique event will provide visitors with a rare opportunity to learn about one of Ohio’s most important bat populations while participating in hands-on activities and nighttime adventures.

Bats play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by consuming thousands of insects each night, providing natural pest control, and supporting environmental balance. The little brown bat has experienced severe population declines due to White-nose Syndrome, making the protection and monitoring of colonies like the one at Clendening Lake increasingly important to the species’ recovery.

“Clendening Lake is home to the largest maternity colony of little brown bats in Ohio, significantly contributing to local biodiversity,” said Dr. Joe Johnson, ecologist at the University of Cincinnati. “This colony, estimated at 1,350 during 2025, is essential to the survival of this species in Ohio as it recovers from white-nose syndrome. MWCD’s efforts to protect and support this colony is one of the most important bat conservation projects currently underway in Ohio.”

The highlight of the event will include an active bat survey by Dr. Johnson and staff, who will use mist nets as part of ongoing conservation and research efforts. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe bats being safely captured, identified, measured, tagged, and released as part of a new tracking program designed to help researchers better understand bat movement, behavior, and habitat use.

In addition to the live bat netting and tagging demonstrations, attendees can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the evening, including wildlife education exhibits and displays, opportunities to meet bat experts and ask questions, boat tours, bat box workshop, and t-shirt tie dye.

“Bat Discovery Night gives visitors a chance to see conservation science in action and witness scientific research firsthand at one of Ohio’s most significant bat habitats,” said Dana Ohman, MWCD chief of conservation. “We are proud to be a part of such a significant initiative to protect this colony and others like it.”

MWCD encourages everyone to participate in these or other events and join in protecting and preserving the natural beauty of Eastern Ohio. More information on MWCD’s events can be found at www.MWCD.org/calendar.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is pleased to announce the launch of its new Connecting Communities Grant Program, a $1 million initiative designed to expand public access to outdoor recreation across its region.

Funded through MWCD’s oil and gas revenue, the program represents a strategic reinvestment of natural resource development back into the communities of the watershed to support projects that enhance quality of life and create lasting public benefit.

The program will fund capital projects that create outdoor recreational infrastructure, including trails, playgrounds, waterfront access, and park improvements. The initiative reflects MWCD’s long-standing commitment to investing in outdoor spaces that improve quality of life and support communities.

“Connecting people to the outdoors is fundamental to our mission,” said Pete Novotny, chief of recreation at MWCD. “This program is about more than building trails or parks, it’s about strengthening communities, improving quality of life, and ensuring that every resident in our watershed has access to meaningful outdoor experiences close to home.”

The program focuses exclusively on permanent, high-impact projects beginning at $25,000 that provide measurable public benefit and long-term access to outdoor recreation. Eligible applicants include Ohio political subdivisions such as municipalities, counties, townships, and park districts, as well as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located within MWCD’s service area. The deadline to apply is September 1, 2026 and awards will be announced in November.

In addition to the primary grant program, MWCD will offer a Small Opportunity Grant for smaller, time-sensitive projects. These awards will range from $5,000 to $25,000 and will be available on a rolling basis to support immediate community needs.

For additional information and to apply, visit www.mwcd.org/communitygrant

New Philadelphia, OH  — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District invites the public to celebrate the completion of its new marina building at Clendening Lake with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 26, at 2 p.m. The event will be held at Clendening Lake Marina, 79100 Bose Rd., Freeport, Ohio 43973. Community members, local officials, partners, and members of the media are invited to attend.

The new 3,400-square-foot marina facility represents a significant investment in enhancing visitor experiences and recreational opportunities at one of Ohio’s premier outdoor destinations.

The building features public restrooms, a sales area, office space, storage facilities, and an emergency generator to support marina operations and improve visitor safety and convenience. The new facility replaces aging infrastructure and will better serve boaters, campers, anglers, and lake visitors for years to come.

“This project reflects our commitment to continually improving the recreational experiences available throughout the MWCD lake region,” said Pete Novotny, Chief of Recreation. “The new marina building will provide visitors with upgraded services and amenities while supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of Clendening Lake.”

Construction of the marina building is part of a broader effort to enhance facilities at Clendening Lake. The existing marina structure will be removed following the upcoming season as operations transition fully to the new facility.

Additional improvements are also underway at Clendening Lake. Construction will soon begin on three new rental cabins, including two two-bedroom units and one one-bedroom unit. Each cabin will feature loft space and a fireplace, providing visitors with comfortable accommodations and expanded lodging options. The cabins are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The marina and cabin projects are part of MWCD’s ongoing investments to strengthen outdoor recreation opportunities, attract tourism, and support local economic development throughout the watershed region.

For more information about Clendening Lake and MWCD recreational opportunities, visit www.mwcd.org.

New Philadelphia, OH (June 4, 2026) — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is introducing a new opportunity to expand access to lakefront living. Windward Shores, a new cottage site development at Atwood Lake, opens a new opportunity for individuals to build and own a private home in one of the region’s most sought-after recreational destinations.

Commonly referred to as “cottage sites,” homeowners lease the land from MWCD while owning the cottage constructed on the property. All homes will be built according to design guidelines established and managed by MWCD to ensure quality, consistency, and balance with the surrounding natural environment.

The Windward Shores development, located off Lodge Road SW (State Route 542), will include 18 sublots. Every site is designed to maximize the lakefront experience, featuring access to Atwood Lake including a dock, golf cart parking areas near dock entrances, and access to beach areas.

“This development represents an exciting new chapter for Atwood Lake and MWCD,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “This is the first new cottage area in more than 50 years and will help fill a growing demand for lakefront living. The design includes private docks, private beach, golf cart trails, walking paths and spacious lots with ample room to build a beautiful home overlooking Atwood Lake.”

Community members interested in learning more are invited to attend an informational meeting on June 18, 2026, from 5-7pm at the Atwood Yacht Club (2637 Lodge Rd. SW, Sherrodsville, OH 44675), where MWCD representatives will share details about the project, leasing process, and design guidelines.

The cottage sites will be offered through a public auction on July 11, 2026, beginning at 11am at the Atwood Yacht Club, with an online bidding option through Kaufman Realty at Bid.kaufman-auctions.com.

Additional information is available online at www.mwcd.org/windwardshores.

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 $9 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 and Instagram.

Southeast, Ohio: April 16, 2026 ––  Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig W. Butler to its Board of Directors. Butler joined the board in September 2025, bringing decades of leadership experience at the intersection of environmental stewardship, energy policy, and economic development.

Butler currently serves as Executive Director and Secretary of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD), a role he has held since 2020. His career in public service includes appointment by Governor John Kasich as Director of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, where he served from 2014 to 2019. Most recently, Butler also served as Executive Director of the Power Siting Board for the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

“OhioSE plays a critical role in shaping the future of Southeast Ohio and I’m proud to support an organization that understands the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship,” said Butler. “I look forward to joining a team of dedicated people who are helping advance initiatives that create a lasting value for our communities.”

Throughout his career, Butler has been recognized as a forward-thinking leader, known for his ability to balance environmental protection, conservation, public health, and economic growth. His experience navigating complex regulatory environments, infrastructure development, and energy policy provides valuable perspective as OhioSE works to attract investment, support community growth, and advance sustainable economic opportunities across the region.

“Craig’s background aligns closely with OhioSE’s mission to drive responsible, long-term economic development,” said Matt Abbott, OhioSE President and CEO. “His expertise in energy systems and public-sector leadership will strengthen our efforts to support communities and industries throughout Southeast Ohio.”

Butler holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Science in Environmental Studies from Ohio University. His deep ties to Ohio and extensive statewide leadership experience position him as a strong advocate for regional collaboration and innovation.

OhioSE looks forward to Butler’s contributions as the organization continues its work to promote economic vitality, resilience, and opportunity throughout Southeast Ohio.

–

Contact: Sarah Arnold, OhioSE Director of Communication & Marketing: 740.525.5510 and [email protected].

Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) is the JobsOhio Network Partner for southern, eastern, and southeastern Ohio, providing economic development work and resources in 25 rural counties. Geographically the largest of the seven regions across the state, OhioSE partners closely with regional development districts, local economic development offices, state agencies, and other entities to expand, retain, and attract businesses in the counties they serve. Learn more at OhioSE.com.

JobsOhio, Ohio’s private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO, JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage. Learn more atwww.jobsohio.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

New Philadelphia, OH (April 13, 2026) — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) invites the public to celebrate the grand opening of the new Quarry Trail at Clendening Lake Dam with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, April 24 at 2:00 p.m.

The Clendening Dam is located at 28700 CR-69 in Tippecanoe, OH.

“The Quarry Trail offers a one-of-a-kind experience where visitors can step into local history while enjoying scenic views of Clendening Lake, mature forests, and striking rock formations,” said Pete Novotny, MWCD chief of recreation. “We’re excited to unveil this new trail that features diverse terrain and points of interest, including large trailside boulders, seasonal wildflowers, and elevated views of the lake making it an engaging destination for hikers of varying experience levels.”

Following the ceremony, MWCD staff will lead a guided hike of the 1.3 mile intermediate, natural-surface loop trail, highlighting its construction, surrounding landscape, and the historic significance of the former Halderman Stone Quarry.

Originally decommissioned in 1906, the quarry was once a key source of sandstone used for foundation stones, mill stones, and pulp stones distributed throughout Ohio. Today, the site has transformed into a thriving natural area, where a distinctive microclimate supports a wide variety of wildflowers and native vegetation.

Additional information is available online at www.mwcd.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 $9 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 and Instagram.

New Philadelphia, OH (April 6, 2026)— The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate Earth Day 2026 with a series of community-focused events designed to promote environmental stewardship and appreciation for the region’s natural resources.

Activities will take place across multiple MWCD locations and include opportunities to plant native trees, recycle materials, and help keep parks and shorelines clean. These efforts support MWCD’s mission to conserve land and water while encouraging hands-on involvement from communities throughout the watershed.

“Earth Day is an opportunity for our communities to come together and take simple, meaningful actions that have a lasting impact on our watershed,” said Dana Ohman, MWCD chief of conservation. “In addition to our public tree giveaway, we’re proud to extend this effort into local schools, distributing more than 3,500 native seedlings to students across Ashland, Belmont, Muskingum, Tuscarawas, and Noble counties. By putting trees directly into students’ hands, we’re helping grow a more diverse canopy while teaching the importance of trees in supporting pollinators, managing stormwater, and strengthening our environment for future generations.”

Tree Giveaway – April 18 from 10:00am-12pm

Visit Atwood, Charles Mill, and Tappan Lake Parks to receive free oak seedlings. Oaks are especially valuable, serving as a vital food source for caterpillars and helping intercept and store rainwater. Since 2024, this initiative will have provided more than 2,200 seedlings. Buckeye Career Center Natural Resources students will also play a role by assisting with packaging the seedlings.

Earth Day Clean-up at the Lake

MWCD encourages the community to participate in the Earth Day Clean-up at the Lake and help keep them pristine by gathering and disposing of trash around the lake. In return, participants will receive a free night of camping. Events occur:

• April 18: Atwood, Clendening, Charles Mill, Tappan
• April 25: Piedmont, Pleasant Hill, Seneca

Tire Take Back – April 25 from 9am-12pm

The Tire Take Back Event will be hosted at Seneca Lake Marina and offers residents a convenient way to responsibly dispose of used tires. This initiative helps reduce litter and prevent pollution in streams, rivers, lakes, and soil, with collected tires being recycled into new materials like rubber mulch and gym mats. Willig Tire Recycling LLC will be on-site to accept passenger tires (no semi or agricultural tires will be accepted). Tires must be free of debris, and tires on rims will be accepted but will not be removed from the rim and will be donated as is. (State law prohibits hauling more than 10 tires without a permit.)

MWCD encourages everyone to participate in these or other Earth Day events and join in protecting and preserving the natural beauty of Eastern Ohio. More information on MWCD’s Earth Day events can be found at www.mwcd.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 $9 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 and Instagram.

New Philadelphia, OH (March 3, 2026)— The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) Conservancy Court has appointed Elizabeth W. Stephenson, Esq., to the MWCD Board of Directors during a special session held at the Tuscarawas County Courthouse. Thirteen judges from throughout the watershed were present for the appointment.

Stephenson served for 27 years as Court Administrator for the Tuscarawas County Court of Common Pleas, General Trial Division. Throughout her career, she has played a leadership role in court administration across Ohio, including service with the Supreme Court of Ohio and the Ohio Association for Court Administration. She is a licensed Ohio attorney and remains active in numerous community and civic organizations.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Elizabeth to the MWCD Board of Directors,” said Craig Butler, Executive Director of MWCD. “Her decades of experience working alongside the courts, leadership at the state level, and deep commitment to this community make her an outstanding addition to our Board. Elizabeth brings thoughtful insight and a strong understanding of public service that will serve the District well.”

“I have long been familiar with and deeply appreciative of the Conservancy District and its lakes,” Stephenson said. “From personal experiences over the years to my professional involvement hosting Conservancy Court proceedings, I have seen firsthand the important role MWCD plays in our communities. I am honored to serve and look forward to supporting the District’s continued stewardship of our watershed and recreational resources.”

The Conservancy Court will reconvene in June for its annual and presentation of the 2025 Annual Report.

For more information, visit www.mwcd.org.

A significant excavation and dredging initiative is scheduled to take place during the 2025 winter drawdown at Piedmont Lake, targeting three areas where sediment buildup has increasingly hindered boating access. This will improve access and docking for the three boating associations – Essex Cove Dock Association, Hilltop Cottage Area/Lake Ridge Dock Association, and the Akron Boat Club, and some of the adjacent cottage site docks in the vicinity.

The project focuses on improving water depth for boaters especially when launching and retrieving boats. In addition to dredging, the project will address substantial sediment deposits at the mouths of the streams flowing into several bays. One of the most impacted areas is the bay upstream of the Essex Cove, where roughly two acres have filled in with sediment over time. This accumulation has played a major role in restricting water depth and usable boating space.

Across the three targeted zones, crews are expected to remove an estimated 12,750 cubic yards of material. Upon completion, the dredging is projected to increase water depth by approximately two feet, providing safer and more reliable access for boating activities.

The total estimated construction cost for the project is $820,000, reflecting the scale of sediment removal required to restore these waterways. The dredging effort represents a proactive step in maintaining navigability, supporting recreational use, and ensuring that Piedmont Lake remains accessible for the many boaters who rely on its dock facilities year after year. The project has started and is expected to be completed by May 15, 2026.

Photographed: George Broughton (left) and Craig Butler, MWCD executive director sign document to make the purchase official

New Philadelphia, OH (January 12, 2026) The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) has officially completed the purchase of the 700-acres Broughton Nature and Wildlife Area, finalizing an agreement announced earlier this fall and securing the property’s long-term future as a publicly accessible natural space.

The purchase on December 15, 2025, marks the culmination of a partnership between the Broughton family, MWCD, and the Marietta Community Foundation. With the transaction complete, the property is now permanently protected under MWCD ownership, ensuring continued conservation, responsible management, and public access for generations to come.

“This is a meaningful milestone for our organization and for the community,” said Craig Butler, MWCD executive director. “Completing this purchase transforms a shared vision into a lasting commitment. The Broughton Nature and Wildlife Area is now officially part of the MWCD family, and we are honored to steward this special place.”

The Broughton family has long shared the property with the public, fostering appreciation for nature, wildlife, and outdoor recreation in the region. Through this purchase, their legacy of conservation continues, supported by MWCD’s operational stewardship and a dedicated fund established by the Broughton Foundation through the Marietta Community Foundation.

“For our family, this land has always been about giving back to the community,” said George Broughton. “With the purchase now complete, we’re confident the park will be protected and cared for in a way that aligns with our values and ensures it remains open and welcoming to the public.”

The Broughton Nature and Wildlife Area will continue to offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, environmental education, and quiet enjoyment of nature. As MWCD’s first major landholding in the southern portion of the watershed, the property also represents an important expansion of the district’s conservation footprint.

“This moment reflects the power of collaboration,” said Heather Allender, President and CEO of the Marietta Community Foundation. “By working together, we’ve moved from vision to permanence, ensuring this treasured landscape will inspire and serve the community well into the future.”

Additional information about events and public engagement opportunities will be shared by MWCD. For more information, visit www.mwcd.org or contact Dylan Sayre, Broughton Park and Trails Manager, at 740-249-1010.

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 $9 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 and Instagram.

NEW PHILADELPHIA, OH (December 23, 2025) The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is proud to announce the early achievements of its Ranger Cadet Program, a workforce development initiative designed to recruit, train, and prepare the next generation of MWCD rangers. The Ranger Cadet Program provides a structured pathway for qualified candidates to enter the field of law enforcement in the natural resources environment as MWCD park rangers.

Participants are hired as full-time Ranger Cadets with benefits including health, vision, dental, life insurance and paid leave and begin paying into the Ohio Public Employee Retirement System as cadets.  They are enrolled in a MWCD-approved Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) as part of their full-time employment. MWCD pays the tuition up front for OPOTA. Upon successful completion of the academy and passing of the state certification, cadets transition into full-time bargaining unit ranger positions across MWCD parks and lakes.

Since its adoption in February 2025, the program has resulted in the hiring of three Ranger Cadets who have successfully completed the required training and have now joined the MWCD team as full-time rangers.

Our first group of Ranger Cadets includes Cameron Ewing , Pleasant Hill Park Ranger, Wyatt Stanfield, Charles Mill Park Ranger and Brady Positano, Tappan Park Ranger. Rangers Ewing and Stanfield attended the OPOTA Academy at EHOVE Career Center in Milan, Ohio. Ranger Positano attended at the Buckeye Career Center OPOTA Academy.

“The success of our first three Ranger Cadets is a clear testament to the strength of the program and to the commitment of these individuals,” said Mary Burley, Chief of Human Resources. “This initiative not only enhances our ability to build a highly skilled ranger workforce but also strengthens MWCD’s long-term capacity to protect our natural resources and ensure an excellent visitor experience.”

MWCD’s investment in this program reflects a pillar of our 5 Year Strategic Plan “Strengthening our Workforce” specifically in the public safety services area in this case, while creating a sustainable pathway to hire future rangers. The success of the program demonstrates both the need for and the effectiveness of a structured, supportive career-entry model.

“We are committed to building a ranger staff that reflects professionalism, preparedness, and passion for our mission,” said Pete Novotny, MWCD Chief of Recreation. “The Ranger Cadet Program equips new hires with the training and real-world experience they need to succeed.”

With Rangers Ewing, Stanfield and Positano now successfully hired into full-time roles, MWCD looks forward to continuing the program and welcoming future applicants interested in blending law enforcement, natural resources education and outdoor recreation as a rewarding public service career!

For more information about the Ranger Cadet Program contact [email protected]. For information about other current employment opportunities at MWCD, visit mwcd.org/employment.