Fall Stewardship Virginia campaign needs volunteers for environmental projects

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 from now 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,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe. “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 the Governor.

“Events will be held throughout Virginia with many opportunities for volunteerism in our parks and natural areas during Stewardship Virginia,” said Clyde Cristman, director of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. “We appreciate the many Virginians who have participated to date and hope many others will join in. This year, we have put a special emphasis on restoring habitat for pollinators. Habitat for pollinators has suffered over the years. Support is needed to help provide nectar, pollen, water and leaves for the lifecycles of these valuable insects and birds.”

DCR coordinates the campaign with help from other natural resource agencies. The 2015 spring Stewardship Virginia campaign resulted in 168 conservation and educational events across the state. Volunteers participated in waterway cleanups, habitat restoration projects, cleanup and recycling programs, and educational workshops. A special emphasis was placed on habitat restoration for pollinators, including the “Save the Monarch” campaign.

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 may register projects at http://is.gd/stewva which helps volunteers find suitable projects. For more information, including a registration packet, call 804-786-5056.