SITE DESCRIPTION:
Spring-fed wetlands along small streams on this Southern Blue Ridge natural area preserve support four species that are rare
in Virginia. Northern hardwoods of beech, birch and maple occur on the steeper, north-facing uplands here. While this
preserve has a long farming and grazing history, the wetland habitats and rare species they support continue to persist.
A combination of factors including hydrology, soil characteristics, and grazing has maintained the wetlands in an open
condition dominated by sedges and grasses while limiting the abundance of trees and shrubs. Prior to settlement in this
area, other disturbance processes – such as fire or flooding – may have played a role in keeping these streamside wetlands
free of woody plants. The Chestnut Creek Wetlands Natural Area Preserve was acquired using the voter-approved State Parks
and Natural Area bond funds and an endangered species recovery grant from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
VISITATION:
This recently acquired preserve has no public access facilities and is currently under an agricultural lease.
Part or all of the preserve may be periodically closed for resource protection or prescribed burning
activities.
