Author: Grace Rutledge

New Philadelphia, OH (October 13, 2025)— The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) invites trail enthusiasts of all ages and abilities to join us in celebrating the official ribbon cutting of the new Storybook Trail and unveiling of the MWCD Trails Master Plan on Saturday, October 18 at Atwood Lake Park. The event begins at 1pm with the trails Master Plan presentation at the Atwood Lake Park event center located at 9500 Lakeview Road, Mineral City, OH followed by the storybook trail ribbon cutting at 2pm.

With more than 57,000 acres of land and water open for public access, MWCD has seen a growing demand for trails and outdoor recreation opportunities. In a recent survey, 87% of MWCD park visitors ranked trails as their top amenity, echoing statewide research that shows trails are Ohio’s most requested recreational feature.

The MWCD Trails Master Plan lays out a bold vision to design and build nearly 300 miles of interconnected trails across MWCD lakes, parks, and campgrounds over the next 20 years. The plan includes trails for hiking, biking, equestrian use, and accessible recreation, with more than 246 miles of new trails proposed. These connections will link communities, expand outdoor opportunities, and boost Ohio’s growing outdoor recreation economy, making the initiative one of the most comprehensive trail projects in the state.

“We are proud to step into a new era of trail development,” said Pete Novotny, MWCD chief of recreation. “By investing in nearly 300 miles of trails, we are not only enhancing recreation but also connecting communities, supporting local economies, and preserving the natural beauty of our watershed.”

The Storybook Trail at Atwood Lake Park is one of many trail development projects that will shape the MWCD trail system. Storybook Trails offer a family-friendly way to combine reading and outdoor exploration. Families can stroll along the path while reading a children’s story displayed page by page, turning a simple walk into an outdoor treasure hunt of words and wonder. Storybook Trails are designed to foster a love of reading, spark imaginations, promote wellness through outdoor activity, and create memorable shared experiences for families.

For more information about MWCD and trail maps, visit www.mwcd.org/trails.

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.

Photographed: (Left to Right) Josh Schlicher, Mayor, City of Marietta, Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director, Heather Allender, President and CEO, Marietta Community Foundation, Jennifer Ponchak, MWCD, Board President, (back) Eddie Place, Washington County Commissioner, George Broughton, Jay Huck, President, Muskingum Township Trustees, Charlie Schilling, Washington County Commissioner

Marietta, OH — September 29, 2025 – The legacy of the Broughton family’s commitment to conservation and community will continue for generations, as the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) announces the purchase of the Broughton Nature and Wildlife Area. The acquisition ensures the land will remain publicly accessible and carefully stewarded, supported both by MWCD’s ongoing investment in operations and a dedicated fund established through the Broughton Foundation’s contribution to the Marietta Community Foundation.

“Our family has been proud to share the Broughton Nature and Wildlife Area with the public over the years,” said George Broughton. “This partnership with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy and benefit from this special place. Through the Broughton Foundation’s investment in the Marietta Community Foundation, we are helping to secure long-term stewardship of the land, while enhancing public access and preserving its natural beauty for years to come.”

“On behalf of the MWCD board of directors, I am excited to celebrate the acquisition of the Broughton property, an extraordinary addition to the conservancy district,” said Jennifer Ponchak, MWCD Board President. “This land represents not just acreage, but opportunity for continued recreation, conservation, and community connection. As our first major landholding in the southern part of the watershed, it reflects our ongoing commitment to preserving natural resources and providing places where families can explore, learn, and grow together.”

For decades, the Broughton family has played a vital role in shaping the Mid-Ohio Valley, preserving open spaces, fostering educational opportunities, and enriching the community. Carl Broughton, a founding visionary of the Marietta Community Foundation, established a tradition of philanthropy and conservation that continues today.

“This partnership is about more than land, it’s about legacy,” said Heather Allender, President and CEO of Marietta Community Foundation. “The Broughton family, MWCD, and the Foundation each bring unique strengths to this effort. Together, we are ensuring this park remains a place where people can learn, explore, and be inspired by nature.”

The Broughton Nature and Wildlife Area will remain open to the public, providing a space for outdoor recreation, education, and the enjoyment of nature. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to ensuring this treasured wildlife area and community resource continues to thrive for generations to come.

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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.

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NEW PHILADELPHIA, OH — September 17, 2025 – The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is excited to announce the opening of applications for an Earth Day Native Tree Giveaway Program, an initiative designed to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

The program provides elementary school students (grades K–5) across the Muskingum River and Duck Creek watersheds with native tree seedlings to take home and plant. By encouraging children to plant and care for their trees, MWCD aims to foster a lifelong connection to nature while supporting conservation, flood control, and improved water quality throughout the watershed.

“Trees are one of our most valuable natural resources, benefiting air and water quality, stabilizing soil, and providing habitat for wildlife,” said Craig Butler, Executive Director at MWCD. “This program allows children to experience those benefits firsthand, watching their seedling grow year after year.”

Schools within the watershed region are invited to apply to receive between 210 and 600 seedlings for distribution to students. The 2026 giveaway will feature five native species: Eastern Redbud, Red Maple, Red Oak, Serviceberry, and White Oak. These trees were selected to maximize biodiversity and support a wide range of growing conditions ranging from small yards to rural properties.

Applications will be accepted September 15 – October 14, 2025, on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested schools or authorized representatives should submit a completed application form, available at www.mwcd.org under conservation.

Awardees will receive a single shipment of seedlings ahead of Earth Day 2026.

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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.

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New Philadelphia, OH (September 10, 2025) — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is pleased to announce the awarding of $97,000.00 to seven regional conservation organizations for the development of 11 nonpoint source implementation strategies (NPS-IS) within the Muskingum River Watershed.

Awardees include:

• Ashland Soil & Water Conservation District
• City of Mt. Vernon
• Holmes Soil & Water Conservation District
• Licking Soil & Water Conservation District
• Medina Soil & Water Conservation District
• Rural Action
• Village of Hebron

A NPS-IS is a watershed plan that identifies sources of nonpoint source pollution and details strategies to reduce them. Unlike pollution from a single, identifiable source, nonpoint source pollution originates from diffuse sources such as agricultural operations, urban runoff, septic systems, and roadways.

“This fund represents a significant step forward in supporting MWCD’s neighboring communities as they work to improve water quality and manage flood risks,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “By assisting with the development of these strategic plans, we are helping to lay the groundwork for long-term environmental and economic benefits throughout the Muskingum River Basin.”

These plans, written by local conservation professionals and facilitated through the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program, describe environmental challenges within a watershed, establish improvement goals, and recommend science-based, practical conservation strategies. Once an NPS-IS meets U.S. EPA Section 319 Program standards, communities become eligible to pursue Section 319 funding to implement projects outlined in the plan.

Each watershed has its own unique list of issues, and each plan will be unique to properly address those issues. With these strategies in place, communities can secure funding for projects that directly improve water quality and the environment around them.

The NPS-IS Development Fund was initiated in 2024 with a goal of increasing the number of watershed plans in the Muskingum River drainage basin as well as the funding opportunities for communities that come with them. “When the program started, of the 302 watersheds that make up the Muskingum River drainage basin, only 6% of the area had a NPS-IS (18 NPS-IS written)” said Rome Marinelli, Watershed Coordinator for the MWCD. “Today, I’m excited to share that by funding this latest round of NPS-IS requests, MWCD will cover 12% of the Muskingum River Watershed with a NPS-IS. Collectively, these plans will cover 295,799 acres and over 144,000 individuals. Our goal is to have 20% of the Muskingum River Basin covered by 2030.”

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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 $7 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 Twitter.

NELSONVILLE, Ohio — The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO) and the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) have expanded a partnership designed to advance environmental health and well-being for people within their service areas for years to come.

Earlier this year, MWCD’s Board of Directors approved a $5 million gift to FAO’s Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity, one of five funds established by FAO and its partners to create new opportunities across five areas essential to quality of life. Other pillar funding areas are arts & culture, community & economic development, education and health & human services.

The recent investment from MWCD makes environmental stewardship the first pillar fund to reach $10 million – a level that will allow FAO to award up to $500,000 annually in grants, fellowships and scholarships across the region.

In January, FAO awarded more than $160,000 in partnership with MWCD to support projects and individuals committed to advancing conservation and environmental stewardship in the region. But requests totaled nearly eight times the amount of funding available.

“In 2024, we were able to begin accepting proposals annually to support conservation and environmental stewardship efforts, thanks to a previous investment from MWCD and gifts from other donors who helped establish our Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund,” said Cara Dingus Brook, FAO president and CEO. “Through MWCD’s latest gift, we’ll be able to fund even more environmental initiatives that will benefit our communities, not only today but for generations to come. In time, our goal is to have all five pillar funds reach this level.”

Recently funded projects included a study to determine whether dredge material from inland lakes is suitable for application on reclaimed coal mine lands, a week-long science camp for middle school students and local projects to create and expand community garden and garden arts programming.

Applications for 2025 Environmental Stewardship grants and fellowships are open through Tuesday, July 15. Funding is available to support community projects, fellowships, research and innovation in the 32 counties of Appalachian Ohio and seven additional counties served by MWCD. For more information or to apply for funding, visit www.AppalachianOhio.org/EnvironmentalStewardship.

With the latest investment, FAO and MWCD will create a new statewide collaborative to identify priorities around water quality research, provide services for FAO’s affiliate foundation partners in MWCD’s service area and continue to grow funding available for environmental stewardship-related projects in the region.

“Strengthening conservation and sustainability is one of the key aspects of MWCD’s five-year strategic plan, and our continued and expanded partnership with FAO aligns perfectly with this goal,” said Craig Butler, MWCD executive director. “The new collaborative will guide research priorities related to the watershed, so we can target future funding toward new and creative approaches that improve water quality and address critical gaps in existing environmental research. Together, MWCD and FAO are building a healthier environment and a stronger future for every community we serve.”

A 501(c)(3) public charity, FAO is a regional community foundation serving the 32 counties of Appalachian Ohio. In partnership with 14 geographic affiliate foundations and the regionwide African American Community Fund, FAO works to unleash the collective potential within Appalachian Ohio by encouraging and supporting philanthropy. FAO affiliates in MWCD’s service area are the Guernsey County Foundation, Harrison County Community Foundation, Morgan Community Fund, Noble County Community Foundation and African American Community Fund. FAO also works with affiliates serving the Nelsonville area and Gallia, Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Monroe, Perry and Vinton counties.

June 11, 2025 – New Philadelphia, Ohio — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) held its annual Conservancy Court meeting on Friday, June 6, 2025, with a focus on continued investments in flood protection, recreational development, and environmental stewardship across the watershed. Judges representing the 18-county district gathered to review operational and strategic updates.

Craig Bulter, MWCD Executive Director, provided a comprehensive review of MWCD’s accomplishments over the past year, including infrastructure enhancements, successful collaborations with local and federal partners, and meaningful improvements to recreational access and ecological health.

“I am incredibly proud of what the MWCD team has achieved this year,” said Executive Director Craig Butler. “From advancing major flood control projects to improving public access at our lakes and trails, our work is having a direct and positive impact on people’s lives. We remain deeply committed to protecting our communities, enhancing outdoor recreation, and stewarding our natural resources for generations to come.”

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Huntington District Commander, Colonel Jayson H. Putnam provided an update on the USACE’s efforts within the Muskingum River Watershed, reflecting the strong and long-standing partnership between the federal agency and MWCD. To date, USACE and MWCD efforts have helped prevent an estimated 9 billion in cumulative flood damages across the Muskingum River Watershed through the end of FY24—a testament to the region’s commitment to proactive water management and infrastructure resilience.

The Conservancy Court reaffirmed its support for MWCD’s mission and praised the District’s transparent leadership and regional collaboration. The court also re-appointed retired Major General Ronald E. Dziedzicki from Medina County to the Board of Directors for his second term. Other members of the MWCD Board of Directors include President, Jennifer Ponchak of Morgan County, Honorable Judge Robert S. Moorehead of Guernsey County, Jim Gresh of Stark County, and Karl Gebhardt of Delaware County.

During the meeting, MWCD extended its sincere thanks to Colonel Putnam for his leadership and commitment to the region. The District also recognized and celebrated his upcoming retirement later this year, expressing gratitude for his years of dedicated public service.

MWCD Executive Director, Craig Butler presents an award to USACE Colonel Jayson Putnam for his years of service

MWCD Board of Directors: L-R: Ron Dziedzicki, Jim Gresh, Jennifer Ponchak, Karl Gebhardt, and Robert Moorehead

MWCD Launches “Naturally Ahead” Initiative to Expand and Upgrade Recreation Amenities Across Its Parks and Marinas

June 4, 2025, NEW PHILADELPHIA, OHIO — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) has launched the next phase of its visionary strategic plan: Honoring our past, planning our future, to revolutionize the region’s recreational offerings. This initiative, titled Naturally Ahead, builds on a $195 million investment made since 2013 and marks an exciting continuation of MWCD’s commitment to creating state-of-the-art facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Over the next six years, MWCD will invest an additional $154 million into transforming the region’s parks and marinas into national models of modern outdoor recreation. When it is complete, the MWCD will have invested more than $349 million to enhance the outdoor recreation experience, making Ohio a leader in outdoor recreation.

The MWCD’s Master Plan, first announced in 2013, was funded by oil and gas revenue, allowing the district to reinvest 100% of the income back into aging infrastructure. With much of the original infrastructure dating back to the mid-20th century, the MWCD undertook substantial improvements to bring campgrounds, marinas, and other facilities into the 21st century. These upgrades were essential to meet the growing demands of outdoor recreation, including larger campsites capable of accommodating today’s RVs, new restroom and shower buildings, improved wastewater systems, welcome centers, and marina buildings.

Additionally, MWCD has expanded its offerings to include more than just upgraded camping and cabin accommodations. Responding to public interest, MWCD has incorporated new amenities such as additional playgrounds, trails, spray grounds, sports courts, and fiber optic infrastructure for improved communication.

To date, MWCD has completed campground renovations and amenity expansions at Atwood, Charles Mill, Clendening, Piedmont, Pleasant Hill, Seneca, and Tappan Lakes. An economic impact study conducted by Cleveland State University found that between 2014 and 2022, MWCD’s investments supported over 2,600 jobs and generated nearly $1 billion in regional economic activity.

As MWCD looks to the future, the Naturally Ahead initiative is set to transform the recreational landscape, bringing in a new era of unparalleled outdoor experience.

“‘Naturally Ahead’ is our promise to the communities and families who love MWCD parks—we’re continuing to make the experience bigger and better,” said MWCD Executive Director Craig Butler. “We’re creating modern, fun, and accessible experiences for visitors of every age and interest—whether they want to fish, camp, paddle, hike, or play.”

The $154 million investment will address remaining infrastructure needs while introducing new trends and community-driven projects, such as the newly completed bicycle pump track at Tappan Lake, a destination splash pad at Seneca Lake, and future additions including a regional safety center to the Tappan Lake Region, and luxury “glamping” experiences.

In response to the growing popularity of alternative camping experiences, MWCD is introducing treehouses and luxury cabins at Tappan and Atwood Lake Parks. These accommodations will offer guests a serene escape with panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes. The treehouses will provide an elevated experience among the treetops, while the luxury cabins will offer a comfortable, modern retreat surrounded by nature.

MWCD is also adding more secluded experiences with teardrop camping areas designed for guests seeking privacy and immersion in nature. These new camping options will emphasize sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient features to minimize the environmental footprint while offering guests a unique outdoor experience.

Additionally, MWCD is enhancing connectivity with Wi-Fi. This will allow visitors to stay connected for both work and entertainment, ensuring an improved experience for those who require better communication while enjoying nature. To date, campground wide, free wi-fi is available at Atwood and Tappan Lake Parks.

In addition to these innovative accommodations, MWCD is committed to enhancing its trail systems. A plan to expand the trail system throughout the district to nearly 300 miles will further connect visitors to nature, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration.

Not only is MWCD improving the guest experience, outdated maintenance facilities are also slated to improve across the district. These upgrades will ensure that staff are better equipped to manage the expanded and modernized parks and recreational amenities. The new and improved buildings will provide essential support for the district’s operations, allowing for more efficient maintenance and quicker response times to ensure a high-quality experience for visitors.

“Every splash pad, trail, and basketball court is part of a larger vision,” Butler added. “We’re working to make Eastern Ohio a top-tier destination for outdoor fun while supporting the businesses and residents that depend on a strong recreation economy.”

Along with its recreational improvements, MWCD remains a leader in flood mitigation, environmental stewardship, and water quality. The district has invested over $16 million into stormwater and flood control projects, and $28 million to US Army Corps of Engineers Dam projects, ensuring the region’s long-term sustainability.

NEW PHILADELPHIA, OH — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) marked the start of the season with two exciting ribbon-cutting ceremonies at Seneca Lake Park and Tappan Lake Park, unveiling a total of nearly $3.9 million in new amenities that expand access to outdoor recreation and promote healthy, family-focused fun.

At Seneca Lake Park, MWCD celebrated the completion of a $1.8 million improvement project that delivers a new level of recreational opportunities to the community. Central to this development is a vibrant splash pad, complete with water slides, buckets that dump water, and spray features engineered to bring cooling fun to children and families all summer long.

In addition to the splash pad, the site now features two pickleball courts, basketball court, and storybook trail, blending the joys of reading and nature exploration. These amenities are adjacent to the public swimming beach and concession stand and bring a full day of family fun to your fingertips.

“We’re proud to celebrate the completion of these amenities at Seneca Lake,” said Pete Novotny, MWCD Chief of Recreation. “From water play to storytelling, it’s all designed with families, fun, and connection in mind and becomes a destination for families in the region to enjoy the outdoors and explore nature.”

At Tappan Lake Park, MWCD unveiled a dynamic set of amenities designed to inspire outdoor activity and exploration. The celebration featured the opening of two major projects. A $475,000 pump track, offering high-energy cycling fun for all ages, complete with a tot track for younger riders and BMX bike rentals. This is in addition to the $1.6 million amenities area, featuring basketball and pickleball courts, wildflower and pollinator habitat trail, community fire pit, and nature-based playground, crowned by a whimsical six-foot-tall bear sculpture.

“The new features at Tappan Lake Park, from the pump track to the pollinator trails, give families endless ways to explore, move, and play together,” said Novotny. “But the heart of it all is our nature-based playground that’s quickly become a symbol of this space. It invites curiosity, wonder, and that spark of imagination that only comes from being outside. This isn’t just an investment in amenities—it’s an investment in the well-being of our communities, and the joy of rediscovering nature at every age.”