NEW PHILADELPHIA — A capital improvement plan launched in 2014 by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District has made a big impact throughout the area, officials said.

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.

“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, the district’s 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 the 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 analysis includes investments through 2022 but does not include nearly $15 million in project funding in 2023, and $30 million 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, although it is expected this money will help drive further economic impact through capital improvements and ongoing operations for many years to come, officials added.