Volunteers sought for Stewardship Virginia projects on natural resources

Stewardship Virginia, a statewide campaign to encourage and recognize voluntary activities with a tangible impact on Virginia’s natural resources, continues this year with events across the state. The campaign features activities in both the spring and fall. The fall portion runs through Oct. 31.

“Stewardship Virginia gives us all an opportunity to make real contributions to our natural and historic resources. Virginia’s landscapes and waterways are important for their ecological value, scenic beauty and recreational opportunities,” Governor Terry McAuliffe was quoted as saying in a press release from the VIrginia Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “Stewardship Virginia projects give volunteers the tools, guidance, and structure to continue to enhance these valuable resources. I encourage all Virginians to get involved.”

Citizens and groups may get help from the state’s natural resource agencies. Participants in Stewardship Virginia events will receive certificates of appreciation signed by Gov. McAuliffe.

DCR coordinates the campaign with help from other natural resource agencies. Last year, over 300 projects were registered and more than 5,000 volunteers were recognized with certificates of appreciation. Miles of waterways were cleaned and thousands of pounds of trash hauled away.  Volunteers held recycling events and organized community cleanups.  Invasive species were replaced with native plants and many trails were cleared for citizens to enjoy.

Stewardship Virginia promotes waterway adoption, trail improvement, the planting of riparian buffers, invasive species control, habitat improvement and landscaping for conservation.

The campaign encourages people to connect with land and water to better understand their value. Many businesses and groups across Virginia have already registered Stewardship events and provided support to promote conservation initiatives.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are encouraged to register their projects with Stewardship Virginia, making details available for those wanting to join in. For more information, including a registration packet, call toll free 1-800-42 WATER (429-2837) or in Richmond (804) 786-5056.

Visit http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/stewardship/ for more information about volunteer projects and a registration form.