Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District Reports Strong Progress at Annual Conservancy Court Meeting
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
