NEW PHILADELPHIA — A capital improvement plan launched in 2014 by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District has had a major impact throughout the region, officials said.
The plan, made possible by revenue from Utica shale leases, has boosted the region’s economy by nearly $1 billion through the MWCD’s $221.9 million investment. Additionally, it has supported 2,606 jobs and paid 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 revenues by Cleveland State University.
“MWCD is pleased to partner with Cleveland State University to demonstrate the historic scale of investment achieved through the bold move to enable oil and gas development on our lands.” said Craig Butler, the district’s executive director. “Through careful planning, analysis and through a comprehensive lease and program, MWCD is moving forward and demonstrating how we can deliver nearly $1 billion in economic impact while providing the best camping, fishing and general recreation opportunities in Ohio . I am proud of the decision made by the board and staff in 2011 and very proud that these investments have allowed us to invest in and support the region.”
As Cleveland State’s analysis highlights, increasing oil and gas revenues associated with Utica Shale development have generated revenue for MWCD that has enabled the company to bring economic benefits to the conservation district’s 18-county service area, including creating of jobs and increased state and local taxes sales and growth in related industries such as transportation and infrastructure.
This development has also allowed MWCD to significantly expand its services, now offering some of the best recreational opportunities in all of Ohio. For example, cabins, campgrounds, piers, playgrounds, picnic shelters, shower houses, hiking trails, and wastewater infrastructure have been upgraded to a level of quality rarely found in public parks and campgrounds across the country.
The analysis considers investments through 2022, but does not take into account nearly $15 million in project financing in 2023 and $30 million budgeted for 2024. Additionally, MWCD leased more than 7,300 acres in Harrison County in 2022.
Expenses resulting from this lease are not included in this study, but this money is expected to help provide continued economic impact through capital improvements and ongoing operations for many years to come, officials added.
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