Jammed by log jams? Help is on the way!

If you own land with a stream that is jammed by a log jam in Ashland County that is within jurisdictional boundaries of the Muskingum Watershed there may be financial assistance available to remove the jam.

Through their Debris Removal Program (DRP), the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District aims to alleviate flooding risks, enhance aquatic ecosystems, and improve recreational opportunities in the region. The log jam removal program plays a pivotal role in reducing flooding risks within the Muskingum watershed. Over time, fallen trees, branches, and debris accumulate in streams and rivers, obstructing water flow and increasing flood potential. By clearing these blockages, the program effectively minimizes the likelihood of floods. This comprehensive effort combines environmental conservation with community engagement, fostering a sustainable future for the Muskingum watershed.

The Debris Removal Program (DRP) is meant for removal of debris fields and log jams which are posing or will clearly pose a threat to public health and safety. Examples include flooding of roadways or accumulation of debris against bridges or other critical structures. In addition, debris fields and log jams which cause significant erosion and loss of stream bank material may be considered. The DRP is not meant to be used as a stream maintenance program, but rather for the removal of significant debris fields and logjams.

Eligibility: Applications must be made by political subdivisions of the state or the federal government and typically are made by townships, counties or county Soil and Water Conservation Districts. IRS 501(C) designated organizations are also eligible to apply. Private individuals are not eligible to apply but rather are encouraged to work with their county SWCD or township/county entity to apply on their behalf. Ashland SWCD has assisted with several applications that were approved and completed.

 Prioritization: Requests for assistance will normally be handled in the order they are received. Should the number of requests exceed available funding, requests will be prioritized and funded according to rank. Generally, debris fields and logjams located upstream of Muskingum Flood Control System structures will receive highest priority. An applicant may only submit for one debris removal grant at a time.

Process to Seek Funding: An application form must be submitted and will be reviewed by MWCD. An application can be submitted anytime throughout the year. A site visit may then be scheduled by MWCD staff. Following the site visit and application review, the applicant will be notified of tentative acceptance into the DRP. Following the successful execution of a Debris Removal Grant Agreement, the project may then proceed. Cost Share: A minimum 10% cost share is required from each applicant seeking DRP grant dollars. Cost share may include in-kind services such as administrative costs and project management costs. Maximum Grant: The maximum DRP grant award is capped at $20,000.00 for a specific project location (i.e. a project cannot be broken into phases). If a project exceeds $20,000.00 the applicant should consider applying to the MWCD Partners in Watershed Management (PWM) grant program. Applications for PWM are due yearly on September 1st.

 Project Scope: Project scope will be agreed upon as part of the Debris Removal Grant Agreement. The project will be paid in lump sum fashion only. Change orders/project scope modifications will normally not be approved.

Please call Joe Christner at Ashland SWCD for more information and to schedule a site visit.

Phone 419-281-7645.

Email: jchristner@ashlandcounty.org