MWCD updates Byesville Rotary about plans for Seneca Lake

Pictured: Barbara Bennett, Director of Administrative Services, Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District, and Chuck Fair, Speaker Host. 

Barbara Bennett, Director of Administrative Services for Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD), stated that the mission of the MWCD are conservation/land management, recreation, and flood reduction. Recent MWCD projects at Seneca Lake involved shoreline stabilization. Bennett reported that dredging projects at Seneca Lake are currently scheduled to take place after dredging at Tappan is completed.

Bennett explained that a master plan for development and improvements has been developed for all the MWCD lakes. The complete plan for Seneca Lake is available on the MWCD website-- http://www.mwcd.org/upload/documents/parkmasterplan/finalmasterplans/Senca_Lake_Master_Plans_Final_9.17.2013.pdf 

Bennett went on to provided an overview of the changes and upgrades being developed for each of the MWCD lakes. Plans for Seneca Lake are ambitious. Details of the planned changes are currently being completed. Implementation should begin sometime next year. MWC’s goal is to complete all changes by 2022.

Before any dirt can be moved, staff must identify infrastructure requirements and engineering designs must be completed. Part of this process will include the sequencing of projects to minimize disruption to current lake and campground users.. MWCD expects to have the preliminary design and sequencing completed by the end of 2015

According to the master plan, changes to the camping areas will include larger campsites, parking pads for campers and RV’s, upgraded electric, water and sewer. MWCD plans to add landscaping to campsites to create a natural setting and add privacy. Plans can include new welcome centers, recreation centerc, and shower/restroom facilities. Some areas may have options such as yurts, tree houses and cabins added to offer choices for overnight stays. Cabins will be larger and can include fireplaces, hot tubs, and decks. Beaches will be upgraded. Some may have splash pads installed.

Bennett pointed out that MWCD is also planning to expand recreational programming. At Seneca Lake, these activities will focus on a water park theme and could include programs such as learn-to-swim, water sport leagues, competitive swimming and diving events, and kayak and paddleboard lessons and excursions.

Connect with Byesville Rotary at: www.Byesvillerotary.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Byesville-Rotary/256548047818283. The club meets 7:30 am, Tuesday at the Stop Nine Senior Center at 60313 (GPS use 60299) Southgate Road, Byesville. Walk-ins are welcome at the club’s meeting.