Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
results in following insights.
Although the Virginia Resource Management Plan (RMP) Program just celebrated its 10-year anniversary, many farmers are still unaware of the long-term benefits of participating in this voluntary conservation program. READ MORE
Agriculture Recovery Resource Days are daylong resource fairs for farmers, private forest owners and agribusinesses that were impacted by Hurricane Helene in Virginia. Come to this event to meet with more than 15 local, commonwealth and federal agencies and nonprofit organizations, which will be providing information about programs and resources that can support your farm’s recovery. READ MORE
The Virginia Master Naturalist (VMN) program is a statewide corps of volunteers providing education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has been a sponsor of the program since 2005. READ MORE
Clinch River and Natural Tunnel state parks strive to be advocates for the Clinch River and its biodiversity. The river is an ecological marvel, housing around 50 species of freshwater mussels, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. READ MORE
For National Invasive Species Awareness Week, learn about nine species found in Virginia. READ MORE
A research team of students, faculty and alumni at George Mason University, led by Andrea Weeks, associate professor, associate chair of research, Department of Biology, helped rediscover a population of Ozark milkvetch on Short Mountain in Shenandoah County. READ MORE
Pollinators are essential to ecosystems and habitats across the globe, but they are in decline. While the causes are complex, there are simple ways you can help them at home. READ MORE
In the United States, floods are the most common type of natural disaster, and they often cause extensive damage to homes. In Virginia, floods pose a risk to residents throughout the state, even if you live outside a mapped floodplain or traditional high risk zone. Common threats include storm surges, riverine and tidal flooding, and even snowmelt. READ MORE
Unfortunately, Virginia’s native environment is threatened by invasive species of plants, animals and insects. Thankfully, the Virginia Department of Conservation’s Natural Heritage Program and the Virginia Native Plant Society have been working together to assess the potential risks that come from these non-native interlopers. READ MORE
Fire has shaped development of Virginia’s forests and wildlands for thousands of years. In fact, the existence of many natural communities is closely tied to fire. Before the arrival of humans, natural fires ignited by flashes of lightning played a major role in shaping southeastern landscapes. READ MORE
