MWCD names Dana Ohman chief of conservation

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District announced Dana Ohman joined the organization in January as chief of conservation, bringing more than two decades of experience in aquatic ecology, stream and wetland restoration, and natural resource management to the district.

In her new role, Ohman will lead MWCD’s conservation strategy and initiatives, overseeing programs that protect and enhance the watershed’s natural resources while advancing sustainable land and water management across the 18-county district.

A native of the Muskingum River watershed, Ohman brings a uniquely comprehensive conservation background shaped by experience across nonprofit, state, federal and private sectors, including positions with The Nature Conservancy and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Her experience spans ecological restoration, aquatic biology and natural resource management. She has managed complex stream and wetland restoration projects, conducted field-based biological assessments, collaborated with diverse federal, state and local partners, and supported projects from early site evaluation through design, construction and long-term ecological monitoring. Her expertise also includes technical planning, policy coordination, and monitoring of freshwater lakes and stream ecosystems, as well as consultation on restoration design and implementation.

“Dana brings an exceptional combination of scientific expertise, hands-on restoration experience, and collaborative leadership,” said Craig Butler, MWCD executive director. “Her background and vision will strengthen MWCD’s conservation efforts and help ensure the long-term health of our watershed for generations to come.”

Ohman holds a Master of Science in wildlife and fisheries conservation from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a Bachelor of Science with distinction from Otterbein University.

“I’m honored to join MWCD and excited to support its mission of balancing conservation, recreation and flood reduction,” said Ohman. “This watershed is a remarkable natural resource, and I look forward to working with MWCD’s partners and communities to protect it.”

For more information about MWCD and its conservation initiatives, visit www.mwcd.org.