By 1812Blockhouse
The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is marking a significant milestone this year—the 15th anniversary of its Partners in Watershed Management (PWM) grants program. In honor of this achievement, MWCD has awarded $1,305,707 in new grants to support 11 projects aimed at flood mitigation, water quality improvement, and conservation throughout Eastern Ohio.
Since its launch in 2009, the PWM program has provided over $10.7 million in grant funding for 156 projects across 18 counties within the Muskingum River watershed. This expansive watershed, which is the largest entirely within Ohio, covers nearly a third of the state and plays a vital role in the region’s water management and environmental sustainability.
Investing in the Future of Ohio’s Waterways
MWCD Executive Director Craig Butler highlighted the impact of the program and its continued commitment to conservation:
“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.”
Each year, the grant program undergoes a rigorous multi-step review process to ensure that the most impactful projects receive funding. Applications are carefully evaluated by MWCD staff and a select group of volunteer industry experts before the Chief Engineer and Chief of Conservation make recommendations for approval to the Executive Director and the Board of Directors.
Richland County Project Receives Funding
Among the recipients of this year’s funding is a project in Richland County, spearheaded by West Creek Conservancy. The Clear Fork Mohican River Wetland Restoration Project has been awarded $35,500 to restore a 62-acre property featuring riverfront forest and wetlands. This initiative is aimed at mitigating downstream flooding and protecting water quality in the Clear Fork Mohican River.
This project will contribute to the long-term health of the watershed by enhancing natural flood controls, improving habitat for native species, and ensuring cleaner water for local communities. The Clear Fork Mohican River plays a crucial role in Richland County’s ecosystem, making this restoration effort a significant step toward sustainable water management in the region.
A Legacy of Environmental Stewardship
The continued success of the PWM grants program underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving long-term environmental sustainability. Over the past 15 years, MWCD’s commitment to funding high-impact projects has resulted in tangible improvements in flood prevention, water quality, and land conservation across Eastern Ohio.
With new investments in place and strategic collaborations underway, MWCD and its partners remain dedicated to preserving Ohio’s waterways for future generations. Richland County’s latest project is a testament to this shared vision, demonstrating the power of conservation efforts at the local, regional, and state levels.
Source: Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District
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