The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) has announced the 15th anniversary of its Partners in Watershed Management (PWM) grants program, alongside the allocation of $1.3 million for flood and water conservation projects. This announcement was made in a press release on March 12, 2025.
According to MWCD, the PWM grants program is celebrating this milestone by funding 11 projects aimed at flood mitigation, water quality improvement, and conservation in Eastern Ohio. Since its inception in 2009, the PWM program has been instrumental in supporting initiatives that promote the health and sustainability of the Muskingum River watershed.
Over the past decade and a half, PWM has distributed more than $10.7 million to fund 156 projects across 18 counties within Ohio's largest watershed. The grant selection process is described as highly competitive, involving a multi-step review by MWCD staff and a panel of industry experts before final recommendations are approved by key figures including the Chief Engineer, Chief of Conservation, Executive Director, and Board of Directors.
MWCD Executive Director Craig Butler expressed appreciation for the professionals and organizations dedicated to preserving and managing the Muskingum River watershed. "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," said Butler. He further noted that MWCD has invested over $10 million in strategic efforts to reduce flooding and drive conservation over the past 15 years.
The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District manages flood reduction, conservation, and recreation across Ohio’s largest drainage system. This area spans over 8,000 square miles across parts of 27 counties. With its network of 16 dams and reservoirs, MWCD plays a crucial role in protecting communities while conserving water resources. The watershed comprises three subregions—the Tuscarawas, Walhonding, and Lower Muskingum Watersheds—which converge at Coshocton before flowing into the Ohio River.
