Published by: Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director

Last year was a landmark year for the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) as we honored our past by celebrating 90 years of providing unparalleled flood prevention, recreation, and conservation benefits to Ohio.

As 2024 begins, we will build upon the accomplishments from 2023 and work towards our 5-year strategic plan titled, “Honoring our Past, Planning our Future.” I am excited to provide a sample of the achievements of 2023 and initiatives we have planned for the year.

One very significant achievement from 2023 was the reduction of the assessment for property owners within the watershed by 66%, or $4 million. We made this change because we built a stable financial future through careful resource management. Even with this reduction, we invested over $2.3 million in improvements to our network of dams and lakes in 2023. Additionally, these investments are part of the $221 million park improvements and upgrades made since 2014 which have supported 2,606 jobs paying nearly $300 million in wages and benefits. Through these improvements and upgrades, MWCD has contributed an estimated $1 billion to our region’s economy, according to 2023 Cleveland State University study.

Careful thought goes into how MWCD invests in improvements and upgrades to our facilities that support our mission of flood prevention and control, recreation, and conservation. Our system of dams and other flood mitigation assets is well established and carefully managed in close partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We are proud of the continued high marks we receive from the Corps for our work, ranging from our fiscal support of fixing the Zoar levee and other dam improvements, to our own work restoring and protecting shorelines, strategic dredging operations, and invasive species control. Last year alone we spent more than $4.4 million to maintain and improve this system of reservoirs, dams, and levees to ensure that it is in top shape to preserve life and property. This is our first and primary mission and we will continue to give this our full attention and priority.

Additional investments in our lakes and parks help ensure they are desirable places for families to gather and enjoy Ohio’s natural resources. Projects such as Pleasant Hill Lake Park’s new pickleball and basketball courts, cornhole boards, and shaded seating area are perfect examples of such additions. Similarly, at Tappan Lake Park, we have improved the beach experience with a new restroom and changing area and upgraded the concession building and shelter. Atwood and Piedmont Lakes received new basketball courts, as well. We also completed the 1.3-mile Tappan Beall Farm Connector Trail, which enhances off-lake opportunities and showcases our collaborative partnership with regional conservation groups.

We have ambitious plans for 2024. Proposals are being evaluated for new developments at Atwood Lake. Important infrastructure upgrades are coming to Clendening Lake, including a new wastewater treatment plant, pump stations, and rehabilitation efforts. Tappan Lake Park will see a new welcome center to better serve guests. Additional amenities, including ADA kayak launches, concrete cornhole boards, and playgrounds at various parks demonstrates our dedication to recreation for all. Plans for Seneca Lake Park include a splashpad, playground, sport courts, and additional facilities for a more enjoyable beach experience. The investment back into MWCD facilities at Tappan and Seneca alone exceeds $6 million.

In 2024, MWCD is striving for more sustainable energy solutions and making a groundbreaking leap with a $2.3 million investment in renewable energy and is currently evaluating proposals for 15 solar projects that will produce approximately 1.1 million kilowatt hours.

This year will also see an expanded focus on our conservation mission. This work is essential for us to offer healthy and beautiful lakes, parks, and waterways for both wildlife and visitors. A groundbreaking new partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio has been formed with our $5 million endowment, which aims to support $200,000 worth of conservation projects, scholarships, and fellowships annually. This aligns with an expansion of our water quality monitoring efforts and collaboration with agency partners to develop a regional plan to support healthy wildlife populations. Water quality starts with land use and to maintain our high standards of water quality and reduce impairments in our region, we are increasing our support for best agricultural management practices, sustainable forestry, and wetland conservation. From clean water flows opportunity for recreation, economy, and public health.

As we move forward, MWCD remains dedicated to the core mission of flood prevention and control. Other parts of our program naturally dovetail today to strengthen our recreation and conservation efforts. By working together, our core programs provide protection from flooding and enrich our lives. Eastern Ohio is one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Ohio River Watershed. Preserving this legacy of natural beauty is our shared responsibility and our shared joy. To ensure that MWCD is here for at least another 90 years, we are developing a plan to secure long-term financial stability through the creation of a legacy fund that will live in perpetuity. This fund will benefit future MWCD projects, operations, and potentially lend financial support to other like-minded organizations within the Muskingum Watershed.

MWCD is honored to be part of the communities across the watershed.  As was the vision from our founders, we seek to build a conservancy that not only protects millions from devastating floods, but ensures the waters are clean, and we provide unparalleled recreation, educational, and economic development opportunities.  This is a responsibility that we fully embrace.

Together, with our communities and partners, we will forge a path toward a sustainable and thriving future for the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District and the communities we serve. We look forward to a year filled with exciting developments and more shared successes in stewardship of this beautiful place we are lucky enough to call home.

In a commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of our visitors, our dedicated park rangers recently participated in a comprehensive CPR and First Aid training program. This training heightens our emergency response capabilities within our parks, solidifying our commitment to public safety and service.

During this training session, our rangers learned not only the fundamentals of CPR but also gained a comprehensive understanding of basic first aid techniques. From treating minor cuts and bruises to responding to more severe injuries, our rangers are well-prepared to provide immediate assistance until medical help arrives. This training emphasizes real-life scenarios that rangers may encounter during their duties. This hands-on approach ensures that the skills are practical and can be seamlessly applied in the field. Our rangers practiced administering CPR, applying bandages, and dealing with common injuries, fostering a confidence in their ability to respond effectively in an emergency situation.

As we move forward, this investment in the skills and capabilities of our rangers reflects our commitment to the safety and enjoyment of all those who explore our natural wonders. The knowledge gained from the training gives our rangers the ability to stand ready to respond with skill, compassion, and confidence, ensuring that our parks remain safe and welcoming for everyone.

Staff from the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) recently attended the Ohio Park and Recreation Association (OPRA) annual conference in Sandusky, Ohio. During the conference, the OPRA Annual Awards of Excellence were presented at a banquet hosted by the association on February 6, 2024.

The MWCD was proud to accept a 1st place award in the health and wellness category for a new initiative in 2023, “Capture the Canvas”. The awards are judged by a panel of parks and recreation professionals from around Ohio. Photographed above: Woody Woodward, OPRA Executive Director, Eric Stechschulte, Dylan Sayre, Aaron Stump, and Nate Eppink, OPRA Board President

“Parks and recreation professionals throughout Ohio work every day to improve the quality of life of the people they serve,” said OPRA Executive Director Woody Woodward. “This effort is a shining example of that kind of work, and we are pleased to be able to present this award.”

Capture the Canvas was created with the intention to bring artwork to MWCD trails and increase awareness of the trail system. MWCD also sought participation from local schools to strengthen community partnerships and showcase the artwork of area students.

“I am immensely proud of our organization’s dedication to creating and maintaining a trail system throughout the Muskingum Watershed district for the betterment of residents and guests to our area,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “Receiving this award not only recognizes our hard work, but also underscores the profound impact our trails have on communities, recreation, and conservation.”

Once on the trail, users were encouraged to find the canvas, capture/snap a “selfie”, and upload it to the MWCD website for a chance to win one of three prizes including $1,000 cash donated by Encino Energy, a weekend stay a deluxe log cabin at Pleasant Hill Lake Park, and a full-day pontoon rental from an MWCD operated marina. Counters on the trails documented 6,702 people between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The prize winners included Robert Calhoun, Stephanie Brinkman, and Kimberly Kress.

Five high schools created original pieces for this program. The canvases were beautiful pieces of art ranging from nature, birds, bears, and outdoor fantasy.

The MWCD has committed to increase trail accessibility to all people in the coming years by not only building new trails on MWCD property, but also through a partnership with the Buckeye Trail Association. Public surveys and feedback from neighboring communities and park guests have consistently emphasized the importance of trails. The MWCD has invested over a million dollars in trail development over the last five years.

Capture the Canvas 2024 will kick-off on May 24 and conclude on Monday, September 2, 2024. Follow MWCD online at www.mwcd.org and on Facebook and Instagram for more information about how to register and prize opportunities the upcoming promotion.

New Philadelphia, OH (February 5, 2024)— Today the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) announced that its 30-member team of Rangers—the District’s in-house law enforcement agency— achieved full compliance from the Ohio Collaborative Law Enforcement Agency, the state’s standards-setting and certification authority for law enforcement agencies. MWCD received final recertification for group one standards which include use of force, recruitment, and hiring. Group two standards which include community engagement and body worn cameras, and group four standards which include vehicular pursuits.

The MWCD ranger department will continue to pursue certification for group three.

“MWCD Rangers are sworn peace officers, and they work countless hours ensuring our guests can enjoy our lakes. We also partner with the law enforcement agencies in our neighboring communities when extra support is needed,” said Chief Patrick Brockmeier, MWCD Chief Ranger. “Certification by the Collaborative is not easy to achieve, but it helps ensure that MWCD Rangers meet high standards of professionalism and have the training they need to manage complex situations according to best practices and with safety and service first in mind. We have already received Certification in several other key areas and our advanced vehicle training certification only adds to our capabilities. I am proud of our team for this accomplishment and proud of what it means for the communities and guests we serve.”

The Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board was formed in 2015 in an effort to strengthen community and police relations. The 12-person panel is composed of law enforcement experts and community leaders from throughout the state.

MWCD Rangers are required to be certified police officers within the State of Ohio and have full police powers on MWCD property and adjacent property. To become a certified Police Officer, they must graduate from the Ohio Police Officer Training Academy and complete training on Ohio Laws, Search and Seizure, Self Defense Training, Use of Force Training, Firearms, Pursuit Driving, Human Behaviors, De-escalation Techniques, Diversity, First Aid, and numerous other topics.  The MWCD employs 34 Rangers who are guided by professional policies that are written by Lexipol and are nationally recognized as Best Practices for Law enforcement Agencies.

The job duties for a MWCD Ranger can vary daily from patrolling camp areas, cottage areas, and lakes, to providing Ohio Boater or Hunter Education Courses to the community. They also conduct safety checks, respond to noise complaints, criminal violations, and assist other nearby agencies. Lake Rangers complete vessel inspections, investigate boating accidents, and patrol the waterways to ensure safety.

“I am very proud of the MWCD Ranger Department for this accomplishment and the overall professionalism they bring to the job,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “Throughout the year, our Rangers receive many hours of education and training to ensure that we are adopting the most up to date policing standards, and this additional certification further validates the efforts we have made. We strive to develop relationships within our communities to ensure a safe atmosphere within our parks, cottage areas, and beyond.”

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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.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) announced the appointment of David Lautenschleger to be the new Chief of Engineering and provide supervision of all dams and reservoirs necessary for flood mitigation within the MWCD and its subdistricts. He will also oversee ongoing and continued construction projects and oversee utility operations.

Dave began working with MWCD in 2009 and has served as Deputy Chief of Surveying/GIS since 2017.  Lautenschleger is a professionally licensed surveyor in the State of Ohio and certified GIS professional. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in both Surveying & Mapping and in Geography & Cartography from The University of Akron and a master’s degree in Geographic Information Systems from Penn State University. His career has also included time serving as a professor at the University of Akron and as a GIS Manager at Accurate Technologies/R.E. Warner, Inc.

“Dave has provided strong leadership in the Engineering department for many years, and I am confident he will continue to do so as we move forward with many new and exciting initiatives in this new role,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director.

“I am very excited to continue the great work this team has accomplished,” said Lautenschleger. “I look forward to continuing the strong relationships that have been developed with partnering agencies and overseeing the development of construction projects throughout the district. It is an exciting time for the MWCD, and I am honored to be a part of the legacy that will continue to serve the region for many years to come.”

In this key role, Lautenschleger will oversee the more than $200 million capital improvement projects which span across the district. He will also manage watershed action plans, and project priorities to reduce flood damage, enhance flood mitigation, and improve water conservation and quality in the Muskingum River Watershed.

Members of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) Board of Directors recently approved more than $900,000 in grants to eight organizations for new projects that will help protect against flooding and improve water quality in the Muskingum Watershed.

“There is a tremendous need across our region for efforts that help defend against flooding and protect our water quality from pollution and soil erosion. The MWCD engages in a significant amount of that work ourselves but we can’t do it all, which is why we partner with other organizations in our region that share this mission. Together we’re protecting people and property from flooding and preserving our region’s water quality,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “MWCD is proud to be a sponsor of these projects as they support our core mission and allow us to give back to the communities that are in our backyard.”

The grant program, Partners in Watershed Management (PWM), provides grants for projects throughout the 18 counties within the MWCD. Since its inception in 2009, the program has provided over $13.1 million in grant funding for 185 projects. 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.

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 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 including can be found at www.MWCD.org.

Experienced State Wildlife Official Will Bring New Energy and Ideas to Parks, Lakes, and Outdoor Programs

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) today announced the appointment of Peter Novotny to be the new Chief of Recreation and lead all recreation-related strategies and efforts for the District’s 5 million annual visitors to its parks, lakes, and marinas.

Novotny is an experienced natural resources leader with a strong background in recruiting and building effective teams and managing wildlife and public engagement efforts. He currently serves as the Assistant Chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife and is a recognized national advocate for the use of public lands as the chair of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Hunting and Shooting Sports Participation Committee.

“We’re excited to have Peter join us because of his passion for getting Ohioans outdoors and engaged in all that our state’s natural resources have to offer. He is a capable administrator and financial manager who is committed to public service. His abilities and interests align with the MWCD mission very well and I am confident he will bring valuable energy and ideas as we enter a new phase of expanding the District’s recreational programming for our visitors,” said MWCD Executive Director Craig Butler.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to work alongside fellow professionals as we reimagine recreation to connect people to the wild places and spaces of Ohio,” said Novotny.

In this pivotal role, Novotny will oversee parks, marinas and docking, and work collaboratively across the MWCD to enhance and expand recreational offerings. The MWCD’s lakes and parks have long been recognized as some of the best managed natural resources in the region and new upgrades approved by the MWCD Board as part of its new strategic plan will only build on this tradition of commitment to quality outdoor programming.

Flood Prevention and Reduction, Recreation and Conservation All Recognized for Outstanding Performance and Contributions to Communities

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) announced awards from three different organizations recognizing achievements in its core missions or flood prevention and reduction, recreation, and conservation.

Flood Prevention and Reduction

Established 90 years ago to prevent and reduce flooding in eastern Ohio in the Muskingum River watershed, MWCD’s work to build and manage its dams has always been central to its work. Its excellence in this mission was recognized recently by the Ohio Dam Safety Organization when it gave MWCD the annual award for the Best Maintained Dam. The award was for MWCD’s work on the eight dams in its Chippewa District.

Adam Liston – Project Coordinator, MWCD Chippewa sub-district

Recreation

MWCD’s achievements in continuing to expand and upgrade its recreation efforts were recognized by the Buckeye Trail Association when it awarded MWCD the Merrill Gilfillan Award for Visionary Agency Partners. The Buckeye Trail is a 1,400-mile network of trails across the state, a portion of which goes through MWCD lands. Named for the founder of the Buckeye Trail Association, the award is for organizations that make extraordinary efforts to partner with the Association to support and maintain the trail.

Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director, Steve Walker, Buckeye Trail Association, Eric Stechschulte, MWCD Deputy Chief Projects and Planning

Conservation

In recognition of MWCD’s efforts to support other organizations across Appalachia dedicated to protecting and improving wild spaces, the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO) awarded MWCD the Chaddock Philanthropist of the Year Award. The award celebrates people and organizations that have made an outsized difference in Appalachia through gifts of philanthropy.

Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director, Gordon Maupin, MWCD Board Member, Jennifer Ponchak, MWCD Board Member, Robert Moorehead, MWCD Board Member, Matt Thomas, MWCD Chief of Conservation

“Serving Eastern Ohio is a mission to which the people of MWCD are deeply committed. They don’t do it for recognition but when we are recognized for doing the right thing and doing it well it is something we appreciate. MWCD is a unique resource for our state and region, and we have some of the best professionals in dam management, recreation and conservation anywhere in the country. We are honored to receive these awards, which reflect our organization’s dedication to excellence. It is a testament to the hard work, passion, and collaboration of our team in maintaining the highest standards in dam safety, supporting recreational trails, and contributing to the betterment of the Appalachian community,” said Craig Butler, Executive Director, MWCD.

Study shows nearly $1 Billion from Multi-year Capital Improvement Plan

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) announced a plan to address major upgrades and deferred maintenance needs at recreational facilities and marinas in 2014. The plan, which was enabled by revenues from Utica shale leases, has bolstered the region’s economy by nearly $1 billion through the MWCD’s investment of $221.9 million. It has also supported 2,606 jobs, paying out nearly $300 million in wages and benefits since its inception nine years ago.

The economic benefits were calculated as part of a comprehensive analysis of the benefits of MWCD’s oil and gas revenue done by Cleveland State University and released publicly today.

“MWCD is excited to work with Cleveland State University to show the historic levels of investments made from taking the bold step to allow oil and gas development on our lands,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “Through careful planning, analysis, and through a comprehensive lease and program, MWCD is leading the way and showing how we can have nearly $1 billion of economic impact, all while offering the best camping, fishing and overall recreation opportunities in Ohio.  I am proud of decision by the Board of Directors and staff made in 2011 and very proud that we have been able to invest and support the region through these investments.”

As the Cleveland State analysis underscores, increases in oil and gas revenues associated with Utica Shale development have generated revenue for MWCD that has enabled it to bring economic benefits to the conservancy district’s 18-county service area, including job creation, increased state and local tax revenue, and growth in related industries such as transportation and infrastructure. This development has also enabled MWCD to greatly expand its services so that it now provides some of the best recreational opportunities anywhere in Ohio. It has, for example, upgraded cabins, campgrounds, docks, playgrounds, picnic shelters, shower houses, trails, and wastewater utilities infrastructure to a level of quality rarely found in public parks and campgrounds anywhere in the country.

The Cleveland State analysis includes MWCD’s investments through 2022 but does not include nearly $15M in project funding in 2023, and $30M budgeted for 2024. In addition, MWCD leased more than 7,300 acres in Harrison County in 2022. Spending resulting from this lease agreement is not reflected in this study either, although these revenues will catalyze further economic impact through capital improvements and ongoing operations for many years to come.  With the addition of these additional significant investments, the economic benefits of MWCD’s oil and gas revenue are even greater.

To review the Economic Impact Study, visit www.mwcd.org/EconomicImpact

MWCD Employees, Matt Thomas and Paige Hay help load tires into the shipping truck.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) conservation team and park staff at Pleasant Hill Lake Park held the first annual Tire Amnesty Day on October 21, 2023. This event was created as a way to help residents properly dispose of their scrap tires for free. This event is also in response to concerns of illegally dumped tires ending up in MWCD lakes or along roadways.

Braydon West tosses a tire into the shipping truck.

MWCD chose to only accept car and light passenger tires to help maximize the capacity of tires that could be accepted from the public. In total, 25,000 pounds (about the weight of a school bus) of scrap tires were collected at this successful one-day event!

Tires are stacked in a pattern to optimize space.	Braydon West and Matt Thomas loading tires.

The scrap tires collected during the event, were transported by Willig Tire Recycling LLC in Galion, Ohio to their state-of-the-art facility to be reused and recycled. The scrap tires get a second life as they transform into new products such as rubber mulch, curbs, ballistic rubber, acoustic tiles, gym mats, and tire derived fuel (TDF) to generate heat and electricity. The recycling center’s mission, along with MWCD, is to provide solutions for a more sustainable future. By creating this partnership, MWCD can continue to promote healthier and more environmentally responsible events that have positive impacts on the communities within the district. MWCD’s Conservation Department will be hosting other tire amnesty events in 2024.