Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
In 2020, the outdoors has provided us with a vast playground to enjoy and share with our community. With all the changes that continue to occur in our everyday lives, being in the outdoors provides physical and mental relief. READ MORE
Moving poultry litter out of Virginia's main poultry-producing areas to be applied properly as a crop nutrient source pays for some agricultural producers. Read about one farmer's experience in Halifax County. READ MORE
Bat Week falls around Halloween, but bats are not to be feared. The 1,400 species of bat around the world provide a wealth of ecosystem services. READ MORE
In summer, most people arriving at Pocahontas State Park on Saturday have their mountain bikes, coolers and camping gear in tow. Not so the morning of Saturday, Aug. 22. READ MORE
The designations coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Virginia Scenic Rivers Program. The program’s intent is to recognize rivers with outstanding scenic, recreational, historical and natural qualities. READ MORE
Earth Day 2020 will be different. Even though public gatherings are off the table, that doesn’t mean we can’t take meaningful action. In fact, the 50th anniversary of the first Earth Day on April 22 presents opportunities to do more than we’ve ever done before, right at home. 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
March 8-14 is Virginia Flood Awareness Week, an ideal time to make preparations for potential flooding ahead of spring rains and the upcoming hurricane season. Floods are the most common and costly natural hazard. Catastrophic floods can impact anyone, anywhere. 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
From the highlands of the Blue Ridge to the windswept coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia offers a bounty of opportunities for birders. The state is frequented by approximately 400 different bird species over the course of a year, including everything from raptors to warblers to shorebirds. READ MORE
