FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Nov. 14, 2002
Contact: Lois delBueno, Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-7961
State nutrient management training at two Virginia sites
(Richmond, VA) - Two nutrient management training schools will be held in central and southwestern Virginia in December. Many farms in Virginia, depending on their operations, benefit from nutrient management. Following the training, participants can be certified by the state via exam to write nutrient management plans.
The four-day schools, conducted by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), are recommended for anyone involved in agriculture or related industries, as well as natural resource professionals. Topics include manure use on poultry and dairy operations, land application of biosolids, establishing realistic crop yield goals and spreader calibration.
In Abingdon, the training session is Dec. 17 - 20 at Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. In Ashland, the session is Dec. 10 - 13 at Comfort Inn on N. Cottage Ln.
The first two days of the school are lectures by Virginia Tech professors covering soil science, soil fertility, crop production and managing organic nitrogen sources. The last two days, DCR staff explains to participants the various components of a nutrient management plan, while using a case study to write a plan in class.
Classes are 9 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. each day. There are no pre-requisites for the training, however space is limited and participants must pre-register before Nov. 18, 2002.
DCR's nutrient management training and certification teaches people to write detailed plans. Recommendations in these plans show farmers how to efficiently apply fertilizers and manures to get the most benefit for their crops. While some people know nutrient management involves following planned recommendations, just how a nutrient management plan works for an individual situation, or finding someone to write a plan, can be confusing.
Nutrient management identifies how plant nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus
and potassium, are managed annually for
expected crop production. Nutrient management plans are written, site-specific
guidelines that address these issues. They achieve minimal adverse environmental
effects, primarily upon water quality, and avoid unnecessary nutrient applications.
To register for the training schools contact Susan Townsend at (804) 443-6752. The fee is $75 for four days' training, supporting materials and refreshments.
On Feb. 7, 2003, DCR administers the Nutrient Management Certification Exam in Abingdon and Sandston, Va. Call Susan Townsend for exam applications. Applications with the $100 application fee must be submitted by 5 p.m., Jan. 7, 2003.
For information about DCR's Nutrient Management Certification and Training Program contact David Kindig at (804) 371-8095. Training session and exam information is on DCR's web site at www.state.va.us/dcr/soil_&_water/nmtrain.shtml
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 17, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Parks, natural area bond would impact valley region
(RICHMOND) - Virginia's valley region would receive more than $5.8 million for land preservation and state park construction projects if voters pass a $119 million bond initiative on the ballot state-wide Nov. 5. Effects of the 2002 State Parks and Natural Areas Bond Act will be felt across the state.
"Passage of the state parks and natural areas bond would improve our quality of life by preserving open spaces and endangered natural areas, and provide safe and unique places for families to enjoy the outdoors," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Director Joseph H. Maroon. "Statewide the bond would provide for the acquisition of land for three new state parks, 10 new natural area preserves and finance repairs and improvements in each of the 34 state parks."
Regionally, passage of the bond would mean an infusion of money with bond funds proposed to acquire land for a new state park in the upper Shenandoah Valley. Also the bond would allow for land acquisition for a new natural area preserve in Augusta County, a new preserve in the region to protect Central Appalachian caves and additions to a natural area preserve in Rockingham County.
DCR will only work with willing sellers when negotiating land purchases, Maroon added.
Regional bond projects include:
Douthat State Park - One of the state's first parks, this facility in Bath and Alleghany counties was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks. Nearly $2.2 million is targeted for additional cabins and the construction of an equestrian camping area. With the development of new bridle trails through the national forest, the proximity to the Virginia Horse Center at Lexington, and private riding trails at the Homestead in Bath County, equestrian camping facilities are in great demand.
Natural Area Preserves
Augusta County Wetlands - A new natural area preserve is proposed for Augusta County to protect rare Shenandoah Valley natural ponds found only along the western flank of the Blue Ridge in Augusta and Rockingham counties. These natural wetlands, found nowhere else in the world, are highly threatened by drainage and conversion. Ponds here provide habitat for plants federally listed as threatened and state-listed as endangered.
Central Appalachian Caves - Though known to be extremely rich in caves, few are protected in Virginia. Many are biologically significant and contain unique subterranean species. A new natural area preserve in the mountains of western Virginia would begin to protect this resource.
Rockingham County Addition - An addition to an existing Rockingham County natural area preserve would protect a globally rare natural pond community in Augusta and Rockingham counties. Natural ponds are increasingly rare, and this area provides habitat for rare plants and animals.
Last year, seven million visitors to Virginia State Parks contributed approximately
$144 million to the state's economy.
For more information about Virginia State Parks or the Parks and Natural Areas Bond, visit <www.dcr.virginia.gov/bond/>.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Sept. 26, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks: A great fall vacation destination
(RICHMOND) - As the dog days of summer slowly surrender to fall, the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage remains yours to enjoy in Virginia State Parks.
"State parks are perfect places to enjoy the changing seasons," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Joseph H. Maroon. "Cabins have air conditioning and heating so they're comfortable year-round."
Cabins fill up quickly around holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton.
"Weekends are also popular times to stay in a state parks cabin," Elton said. "We also have cabins available during the week in the mountains or near rivers and lakes. One of the best ways to watch the sun rise in Virginia is from a Virginia State Parks cabin or campsite."
Virginia's state park system is the 2001-2003 National Gold Medal award winner for excellence in park and recreation management, the nation's most prestigious award for state parks.
For more information about Virginia State Parks activities and amenities or to make reservations in one of the more than 1,400 campsites or 180 cabins, call 1-800-933-PARK.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 30, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Parks, natural area bond would impact Southwest Virginia
(RICHMOND) - Southwest Virginia would receive 13 projects totaling $26 million if voters pass a $119 million bond initiative on the ballot state-wide Nov. 5. Effects of the 2002 Parks and Natural Areas Bond Act will be felt across the state.
"Passage of the state parks and natural areas bond would improve our quality of life by preserving open spaces and endangered natural areas, and provide safe and clean places for families to enjoy the outdoors," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Director Joseph H. Maroon. "Statewide the bond would provide for the acquisition of land for three new state parks, 10 new natural area preserves and finance repairs and improvements in each of the 34 state parks."
Regionally, passage of the bond would mean an infusion of money across nearly two dozen counties. Southwest Virginia would see land added to Hungry Mother, Natural Tunnel, and Wilderness Road State Parks, additions to Natural Area Preserves in Floyd, Lee and Montgomery Counties, new Natural Area Preserves in Floyd, Montgomery, and Grayson and construction projects in six state parks. DCR will only work with willing sellers when negotiating land purchases, Maroon added.
"Some of our most popular state parks are in Southwest Virginia and will benefit greatly if the bond passes," Maroon said.
Last year, seven million visitors to Virginia State Parks contributed approximately $144 million to the state's economy.
Regional additions and construction projects include:
Parks
- Breaks Interstate Park - This regional park would receive $400,000 to construct
a new campground and upgrade the restaurant.
- Claytor Lake State Park - This state park in Pulaski County is targeted for
$3.4 million in improvements including new waterfront cabins with docks and
improved marina facilities.
- Grayson Highlands State Park - With voter approval of the bond, $950,000 would
be used to create a group camp area, build bathhouse facilities and improve
park utilities.
- Hungry Mother State Park - The Virginia Association for Parks and DCR have
identified land acquisition in Smyth County adjacent to the park as a top priority.
Campsites at the park are often sold out, and there is little land in the park
suitable for campground expansion. Acquisition and construction improvements
are expected to cost $1 million. Also at Hungry Mother, sediment has slowly
silted the man-made lake. About $1.4 million is targeted for dredging the lake
to its original contours.
- Natural Tunnel State Park - The acquisition of land adjacent to this state
park in Scott County is needed to develop an overnight cabin complex within
this mountain park. Additional fishing access on Stock Creek is also a goal.
Passage of the bond would allow the construction of this park's first overnight
cabins and improvements to campgrounds and a bathhouse at a cost of $3.5 million.
- New River Trail State Park - Covering four counties, the park would see $2.5
million in renovations to the historic Foster Falls complex, $850,000 dedicated
to developing trail access and trail safety improvements as well as improvements
to the water distribution system.
Wilderness Road State Park - Acquisition and protection of the Cumberland Mountain
range north and east of the park will preserve pioneer era vistas Daniel Boone
and countless settlers beheld on their way to the Ohio Territory. The bond would
provide
more than $2.5 million to renovate historic Karlan Mansion and to build a visitor
center, ranger residence, roads, picnic area, parking and utilities.
Natural Area Preserves
- Grayson County Wetlands - A new natural area preserve would protect a series
of headwater wetlands on the Blue Ridge Plateau in Grayson County. These wetlands
have a range of rare vegetation that provides habitat for 10 rare plant species,
one of the highest concentrations in the state.
- Montgomery County Barrens - A new preserve would protect hillsides underlain
by dolomite. This mineral-rich rock creates conditions for various rare vegetation,
including woodlands and barrens, and provides habitat for many rare plant species,
several of which are found nowhere else.
- Floyd County Wetlands - A new natural area preserve is proposed for the Blue
Ridge Plateau in Floyd County. Habitat for two globally rare animals would be
protected.
- Floyd County Addition - An addition to an existing natural area will further
protect numerous rare plant and animal species. The addition would allow for
watershed-wide control of an invasive plant threatening the site's rare wetland
plants.
- Lee County Addition - Additions to a Lee County natural area preserve would
protect additional cave habitats and karst terrain, globally rare limestone
woodlands, and many rare plant and animal species, including one found on only
one other site worldwide, and an animal found nowhere else.
- Montgomery County Addition - Additional land to an existing natural area would
provide habitat for many rare plant species, including one federally endangered
and two globally rare.
For more information about Virginia State Parks or the Parks and Natural Areas Bond, visit <www.dcr.virginia.gov/bond/.>
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 3, 2002
Contact: Gary Waugh, DCR Public Relations Manager, (804) 786-5045
Parks, natural area bond would impact Tidewater Virginia
(RICHMOND) - Tidewater would receive 13 projects totaling $28 million if voters pass a $119 million bond initiative on the ballot state-wide Nov. 5. Effects of the 2002 Parks and Natural Areas Bond Act will be felt across the state.
"Passage of the state parks and natural areas bond would improve our quality of life by preserving open spaces and endangered natural areas, and provide safe and clean places for families to enjoy the outdoors," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Director Joseph H. Maroon. "Statewide the bond would provide for the acquisition of land for three new state parks, 10 new natural area preserves and finance repairs and improvements in each of the 34 state parks."
Regionally, passage of the bond would mean the acquisition of land for a new water access park on the Middle Peninsula. The Tidewater region would also see land added to Chippokes Plantation and Kiptopeke State Parks, additions to Natural Area Preserves in Virginia Beach and Surry and Isle of Wight counties. New Natural Area Preserves will be acquired in Isle of Wight and Matthews counties. DCR will only work with willing sellers when negotiating land purchases, Maroon added. Construction projects will also be funded in five nearby state parks.
Last year, seven million visitors to Virginia State Parks contributed approximately $144 million to the state's economy.
"The state parks in this region provide recreational access to the Chesapeake Bay and several of its tributaries," said Maroon. "Water access will also be a key offering of the new Middle Peninsula state park."
Regional acquisitions and construction projects include:
- Middle Peninsula area state park - The Virginia Outdoors Plan states the need
for a new water access state park in Virginia's Middle Peninsula, an area rich
in history and natural beauty. An exact location for the park has not been selected.
If the bond passes, DCR will work with local governments, public and private
landowners in the area to select and purchase suitable parklands. The state
will work only with willing land-sellers.
- Inholdings (lands partially or wholly surrounded by state park lands) or adjacent
properties that would round-out park boundaries and enhance park offerings have
been identified at Chippokes Plantation State Park in Surry County and Kiptopeke
State Park in Northampton County. The state will only acquire lands from willing
land sellers.
- Southern Coastal Plain Depression Ponds - A new natural area is proposed to
protect natural ponds found south of the James River on the Coastal Plain. These
natural wetlands are threatened by drainage and conversion. The ponds of this
proposed natural area preserve provide habitat for numerous rare plant and animal
species. The proposed area is located in Isle of Wight County.
- Middle Peninsula Wetland - A new preserve is proposed to protect natural pond
wetlands threatened by drainage and conversion. The ponds of this proposed natural
area provide habitat for numerous rare plant and animal species. The proposed
area is located in Matthews County.
- Isle of Wight Addition - An addition to the existing Antioch Pines Natural
Area Preserve and Blackwater Ecological Preserve is proposed to protect globally
rare sandy pinelands and pine barrens in southeast Virginia. This addition will
also enable restoration of rare vegetation found in the sandy region.
- Virginia Beach Addition - The bond proposes acquisition of more land for North
Landing River NAP. This would add to and provide buffer for globally rare and
highly threatened marsh and swamp vegetation. These wetlands provide habitat
for numerous rare plant and animal species.
Surry County Addition - An addition to Dendron Swamp Natural Area Preserve is
proposed to protect an old-growth stand of tupelo and bald cypress along the
Blackwater River as well as buffer already protected stands. Some of these trees
along the river are 1,200 years old. They provide excellent habitat for a globally
rare animal.
- False Cape State Park - At the southern end of Virginia Beach, False Cape
State Park would receive $750,000 to build a visitor center and administrative
complex with modern restroom facilities. Such additions will greatly enhance
the park user's visit.
- First Landing State Park - This park on the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach
is the system's most visited. It draws nearly two million visitors a year. Improvements
totaling $2.52 million include campground water and electric hookups, new bathhouses,
improvements to the Chesapeake Bay Center and Amphitheater, and expansion and
renovation of the Trail Center.
York River State Park - This day-use park on the banks of the York River in
James City County would receive $500,000 to make improvements to the Croaker
Landing boat ramp built in 1980. Monies would improve the existing parking lot
and make improvements to the boat dock. Portions of the dock would be re-engineered
to provide easier access from boats to the dock.
- Kiptopeke State Park - Located on the Chesapeake Bay side of Virginia's Eastern
Shore, Kiptopeke is one of the country's most significant bird watching locations.
Bond funds would be used to construct several five-bedroom family lodges ($2,500,000).
An additional $250,000 would go to improving electrical and water service to
the park's existing campground.
- Chippokes Plantation State Park - With bond funds, this state park in Surry
County would receive $4.62 million for renovation of historic structures, water
system replacement, pool concession facility improvements and campground expansion.
With Jamestown's 400th anniversary in 2007, this work must be done before countless
visitors from around the world visit Tidewater Virginia.
For more information about Virginia State Parks or the Parks and Natural Areas Bond, visit <www.dcr.virginia.gov/bond/.>
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 9, 2002
Contact: Gary Waugh, DCR Public Relations Manager, (804) 786-5045
Parks, natural area bond would impact Northern Virginia
(RICHMOND) - The northern part of Virginia would receive 14 projects totaling more than $23 million if voters pass a $119 million bond initiative on the ballot state-wide Nov. 5. Effects of the 2002 Parks and Natural Areas Bond Act will be felt across the state.
"Passage of the state parks and natural areas bond would improve our quality of life by preserving open spaces and endangered natural areas, and provide safe and clean places for families to enjoy the outdoors," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Director Joseph H. Maroon. "Statewide the bond would provide for the acquisition of land for three new state parks, 10 new natural area preserves and finance repairs and improvements in each of the 34 state parks."
Regionally, passage of the bond would mean the acquisition of land for a new water access park on the North Fork of the Shenandoah River and new natural area preserves in Culpeper County and the northern Shenandoah Valley. The northern portion of the state would also see land added to Lake Anna and Sky Meadows state parks. DCR will only work with willing sellers when negotiating land purchases, Maroon added. Construction projects will also be funded in six nearby state parks and one natural area.
Last year, seven million visitors to Virginia State Parks contributed approximately $144 million to the state's economy.
"The state parks in the northern portion of Virginia provide water access, history and a chance to enjoy nature," said Maroon. "The acquisition of a new state park and two natural area preserves in the region also helps preserve our precious open space."
Regional acquisitions and construction projects include:
- Seven Bends Area River state park - The Virginia Outdoors Plan identified
the need to develop a new state park along the Shenandoah in the Seven Bends
area to conserve some of this beautiful river's frontage and to enhance recreation
opportunities. Increasing demand for river access makes this one of the Commonwealth's
top new park priorities. It is expected that in such a setting, future generations
of Virginians would enjoy this park with various recreational and overnight
facilities.
- Northern Virginia Woodland - A new natural area preserve is proposed in Culpeper
County in the Culpeper Basin on Virginia's Piedmont. The flat, eons-old bedrock
of this basin provides suitable conditions for mineral rich bedrock glades and
the development of rare oak woodland vegetation and a number of rare species.
- Northern Virginia Appalachian Caves - A new natural area preserve in an area
known to be rich in caves. Virginia has a plethora of biologically significant
cave sites, many of which support unique subterranean species found nowhere
else in the world. Few cave sites are protected in the region. The new natural
area preserve is proposed for northern Virginia's Ridge and Valley Province
to initiate protection of this resource.
- Inholdings (lands partially or wholly surrounded by state park lands) or adjacent
properties that would round-out park boundaries and enhance park offerings have
been identified at Lake Anna State Park in Spotsylvania County and Sky Meadows
State Park in Fauquier County. The state will only acquire lands from willing
land sellers.
- Caledon Natural Area - This natural area on the Potomac River in King George
County is one of the country's most significant summering spots for the American
Bald Eagle. The area is slated to receive funds for improvements to the existing
trail system.
- Lake Anna State Park - The bond proposes $4.5 million for new cabins and campsites
in this state park located in Spotsylvania County. Lake Anna has long been one
of Virginia's most heavily visited day use parks for swimming, boating, fishing,
hiking and horseback riding. Cabins and campgrounds have been targeted for this
park for more than a decade.
- Leesylvania State Park - This Prince William County state park would receive
$300,000 for construction of new boating piers and a picnic shelter. This park's
visitor center details the history of Leesylvania, the ancestral home of Virginia's
famous Fairfax and Lee families. The park is among Virginia's most visited.
- Mason Neck State Park - This Fairfax County setting on historic Mason Neck
is part of a public complex managed by county, state and federal governments.
Nearly $1 million is targeted for a new park administrative complex to replace
outdated mobile facilities, and for road upgrades to improve access to hiking
trails and water.
- Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr.-Shenandoah River State Park - Throughout
history the Shenandoah has been among the nation's most legendary rivers. This
park was purchased with 1992 bond funds. The 2002 bond proposal targets nearly
$6.2 million to build a modern campground, an overnight cabin complex and a
visitor center to serve the rapidly growing number of park users. Since the
1930s, state park campgrounds and cabins have served generations of Virginians,
and demand for these facilities has grown stronger in recent years.
- Sky Meadows State Park - Renowned philanthropist Paul Mellon gave this Fauquier
County property to Virginia's citizens. It serves as Virginia's northern terminus
of the Appalachian Trail and includes a historic 1850s farm with scenic mountain
and valley vistas. About $450,000 is proposed to expand existing primitive campgrounds,
build Appalachian Trail shelters and develop a new picnic area.
- Westmoreland State Park - Located on the Potomac River on the history-rich
Northern Neck between Washington's Birthplace and Stratford Hall. The park will
receive $1.15 million to replace an aging complex and to build a new visitor
and birding center.
For more information about Virginia State Parks or the Parks and Natural Areas Bond, visit www.dcr.virginia.gov/bond/.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 17, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks offer hunting opportunities statewide
Virginia State Parks offer the outdoorsman a variety of hunting opportunities this season. The state parks, managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, offer several lottery and reservation-only hunts. In addition, several parks are open for hunting throughout the season.
All hunting laws and regulations apply in Virginia State Parks. Additional rules may apply in individual parks, and all lottery and reservation hunts have special regulations.
Applications are being accepted for lottery hunts at Kiptopeke State Park and Savage Neck Natural Area Preserve. The Kiptopeke hunt will be Nov. 25 - 27, with a special youth hunt on Nov. 23. The Savage Neck hunt will be Dec. 14 and is a special youth hunt only. Applications for the Kiptopeke and Savage Neck hunts are being accepted through Oct. 18. The youth hunts are open to youths 12 - 17 only; youths 16-17 may hunt alone, and youths 12 - 15 must have a non-hunting adult accompany them.
Each lottery requires a separate application. Applications may be obtained by calling the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK or it can be downloaded from the DCR website. Applications must be mailed, along with a $5 application fee, to the State Parks Reservation Center and received by the designated deadline.
Several parks allow hunters to reserve stands or zones on a first-come, first-served
basis:
Muzzleloading and archery hunts will be held at York River State Park Nov. 4-5
and Nov.7-8, the reservation period is Sept. 18 - Oct. 28; Smith Mountain Lake
State Park Nov. 6 - 9, reservation period Sept. 11 - Oct. 25; and James River
State Park Nov. 11-13, with reservations being accepted through Nov. 4.
Muzzleloading-only hunts will be held at Caledon Natural Area Nov. 6-8, with the reservation period Oct. 2 - 30; and Claytor Lake State Park Jan. 17 - 18, with reservations accepted Nov. 13 - Dec. 20.
Shotgun hunts will be held at Chippokes Plantation State Park, Nov. 26 and Dec. 3, with the reservation period Sept. 25 - Nov. 19; James River State Park, Dec. 23 - 24, and Jan. 1 - 4, with reservations being accepted through Dec. 16; York River State Park Nov. 18 - 19, with the reservation period Sept. 18 - Nov. 8. York River will also host a Women in the Woods hunt Dec. 14, with a Sept. 18 - Dec. 6 reservation period.
Hunters may reserve preferred days and stands or zones for an advanced fee of $15 a day, by calling the reservation center.
Open hunting will be offered this season in designated areas of five state parks: Fairy Stone in Patrick and Henry counties, Grayson Highlands in Grayson County, Hungry Mother in Smyth County, Occoneechee in Mecklenburg County, and Pocahontas in Chesterfield County.
Chippokes Plantation State Park will offer a special Southern Heritage Deer Hunt on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. This traditional 19th century hunt features three southern meals, a blessing of the hounds and more. The cost is $250 per adult, $150 for children 12-17 and $50 for non-hunting companions. Reservations are required, and may be made through Nov. 21 by calling the reservation center. Overnight accommodations are available to registered hunters by calling the park at (757) 294-3625.
Several state parks are in or near state forests, national forests or wildlife
management areas that allow hunting. State parks with overnight accommodations
are convenient and economical base camps for hunting anywhere in the area. These
parks offer maps, tips, advice and affordable camping or cabin accommodations
only minutes from the
field. Campsites are available through Dec. 1, and many cabins are open year
round.
For information on hunting licenses, hunter safety education and hunting regulations, call the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries at (804) 367-1000 or visit the DGIF web site at www.dgif.state.va.us.
For more information about hunting opportunities and programs in Virginia State Parks, hunt lottery applications or reservations, or camping or cabin reservations, call 1-800-933-PARK. For more information on Virginia State Parks, visit the DCR website at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
Virginia State Parks that allow hunting
Caledon Natural Area, (540) 663-3861
Chippokes Plantation State Park, (757) 294-3625
Claytor Lake State Park, (540) 643-2500
Fairy Stone State Park, (276) 930-2424
False Cape State Park, (757) 426-7128
Grayson Highlands State Park, (276) 579-7092
Hungry Mother State Park, (276) 781-7400
James River State Park, (434) 933-4355
Kiptopeke State Park, (757) 331-2267
Occoneechee State Park, (434) 374-2210
Pocahontas State Park, (804) 796-4255
Smith Mountain Lake State Park, (540) 297-6066
York River State Park, (757) 566-3036
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Sept. 4, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner Jr., Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Grayson Highlands State Park to Host Fall Festival
(MOUTH OF WILSON, Va.) -- Grayson Highlands State Park's Fall Festival will be Sept. 28 and 29, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. There is a $6 per day parking fee.
"Southwest Virginia has beautiful fall foliage," said Park Manager Harvey Thompson. "The Fall Festival at Grayson Highlands is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the early autumn beauty."
Sponsored by the Rugby Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the festival features live bluegrass, old-time and gospel music, food, children activities, and arts and crafts.
Ponies from the Wilburn Ridge Pony Association will be auctioned at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The wild ponies graze in the park and adjoining U.S. Forest Service's Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the park's picnic areas, visitor center and hiking and biking trails. The park's full service campgrounds with water and electrical hookups will be open through Oct. 31, 2002 and the primitive campsites are open until Dec. 3, 2002.
Grayson Highlands State Park is on U.S. 58 midway between Independence, Va., and Damascus, Va., or 35 miles south of Marion, Va. From Interstate 81 at Exit 45 in Marion, go south on Route 16 to Volney, Va., then U.S. 58 west for eight miles.
For more information about the festival, call the park at (276) 579 7092. Campgrounds at Grayson Highlands are sold out for the festival. For campground or cabin reservations at nearby Hungry Mother State Park in Marion, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 16, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Special lottery deer hunts to be held at False Cape, Kiptopeke state parks, Savage Neck Natural Area Preserve - September 6 deadline for False Cape lottery
Applications are being accepted for special lottery hunts at False Cape State Park in Virginia Beach and Kiptopeke State Park and Savage Neck Natural Area Preserve, both in Northampton County on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Deadline for the False Cape hunt is Sept. 6. The deadline for the Kiptopeke and Savage Neck hunts is Oct. 18. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation handles the applications for all three hunts.
The False Cape deer and feral pig shotgun hunt will be held Oct. 5, and Oct. 7 - 12. At Kiptopeke State Park, a shotgun deer hunt will be held Nov. 25 - Nov. 27, and a special youth deer hunt will be held Nov. 23. Savage Neck will also host a special youth deer hunt on Dec. 14.
A $5 non-refundable application fee must be submitted for each hunt. Anyone may enter the lotteries for a chance to participate in the controlled hunts; however, successful applicants on the day of the hunt must show proof of completing a hunter safety education course, and pay the $10 hunting fee. There is also a $5 parking fee for the False Cape hunt.
There are only five slots available per day for the Kiptopeke and Savage Neck hunts. Youths 12-17 only may apply for the youth hunts, those 16-17 may hunt alone, and youths 12 - 15 need to have a non-hunting adult accompany them. Both the youth and the non-hunting adult must possess proof of completing a hunter education course.
For a complete set of hunt rules and to receive an application, contact the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK. Applications may also be downloaded from the DCR website at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
For information on hunting licenses, hunter safety education and hunting regulations call the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries at (804) 367-1000 or visit its site at www.dgif.state.va.us.
For more information on Virginia State Park camping or cabin reservations,
call 1-800-933-PARK or visit the DCR website at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
Editor's note: Additional state park controlled hunts and hunting opportunities
will be announced the week of Sept. 9.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Aug 27, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia's New River Trail Challenge registration underway
(RICHMOND, Va.) - The third annual Virginia's New River Trail Challenge, a
unique athletic competition, will be held in New River Trail State Park Saturday,
Sept. 21. Entrees are being accepted though Sept. 9 and volunteers for the race
are still needed.
Competitors will bike 40 miles, canoe 12 miles and run 13.1 miles along southwestern
Virginia's 57-mile-long New River Trail State Park. The race is presented by
the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Last year 191 people entered the race, said New River Trail State Park Manager
Mark Hufeisen. "This is our third year and plans are running smoothly,
we have more support from the localities, from the athletic communities and
competitors, and more interest from our supporters," Huffeisn said. "This
year's race really will be the biggest and best yet."
The race begins in the Town of Fries and also involves the counties of Grayson,
Carroll, Wythe and Pulaski, and the City of Galax.
The Wythe County Days Festival will be held in conjunction with the race at
the Foster Falls complex. There will be arts and crafts, music, food and plenty
to do for friends, family and competitors, both during and after the race.
"The race demonstrates the positive economic impact our state park has
on the region," said DCR Director Joseph H. Maroon, who was appointed in
March. "I'm pleased DCR is a partner in continuing the racing tradition
in the park."
The race is an excellent showcase for the beauty of the park as well as the
region, said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton. "Competitors, their families
and support crews travel through some of the most visually appealing sections
of Virginia to get to one of the most unique state parks in Virginia,"
Elton said. "Foster Falls, with its picnic areas, equestrian area, campsites,
restored historic buildings and river access, is quickly becoming a recreational
focal point for the region."
A field of 191 competitors, 38 teams and 43 individuals, from across nine states,
Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Maryland, West
Virginia, Pennsylvania and Florida, competed in last year's race.
For more information about the 2002 Virginia's New River Trail Challenge or
a race registration form, call 1-800-933-PARK, in Richmond 225-3867, or visit
DCR's web site at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 20, 2002
Contact: Tom Smith, DCR Natural Heritage Program Director, (804) 786-4554; Jim
Rindfleisch, York County Dept. Environmental and Developmental Services (757)
890-3790
State and York County reach agreement for mosquito control at Grafton Ponds
(RICHMOND, VA) -- The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and York County Department of Environmental and Developmental Services reached an agreement for mosquito control at the Grafton Ponds Natural Area Preserve. After site visits and meetings with York County mosquito control officials, other local officials and Virginia Department of Health officials, a standard was determined that protects public safety as well as the sensitive natural resources at Grafton Ponds.
York County approved this standard, well within its normal operating procedure for larvicide treatment. The standard uses the county-recommended larval count of 25 or more larvae combined with water levels at Grafton Ponds, based upon a representative surveillance pond.
Larvicide will be applied to the ponds when county officials determine it is necessary under the standard. This number and methodology was based on recommendations from York County and the Virginia Department of Health.
"We have come to a workable compromise that addresses both environmental concerns and the interests of Edgehill residents," stated Jim Rindfleisch, York County Department of Environmental and Developmental Services.
DCR's initial actions resulted from raising the bar on when control would start.
The department based the intent upon U.S. Center for Disease Control Guidelines
and natural resources concerns.
Joseph H. Maroon, newly appointed agency director at DCR, asked his staff to
revise its guidelines to ensure early prevention is a key part of plan. DCR
staff has been working on this for the past two weeks.
"DCR and York County together will take preventive action that mosquito control officials deem necessary to address public concerns and safety, and meet DCR's conservation mission," Maroon said.
Because the dry year has resulted in mostly empty ponds at the Grafton Ponds Natural Area Preserve, they are not supporting mosquito larvae. According to onsite surveys by York County officials, ponds with no water don't have enough larvae to warrant applying larvicide under normal operating procedures. In other words, York County would not have treated the ponds to-date this year because of the low numbers of larvae present.
Tom Smith, DCR Natural Heritage division director, noted that previous articles focused on the connection between chemical mosquito control and endangered species. However, DCR is most concerned for the continuing functioning of the natural system. At an appropriate time, a level of mosquito control determined by technical experts serves citizens' health interests and can be accomplished while also protecting sensitive ecological resources.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 15, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Governor Warner designates June Virginia State Parks Month
(RICHMOND) - Governor Mark R. Warner has designated June 2002 as Virginia State Parks Month and recognizes June 15, 2002 as Virginia State Parks Day.
"For 66 years Virginia State parks have been a national leader in providing recreational opportunities," Governor Warner said. "It is fitting that we recognize June as Virginia State Parks Month and June 15 as Virginia State Parks Day."
On June 15, 1936 Virginia simultaneously opened six state parks: Douthat, Westmoreland, Hungry Mother, Fairy Stone, Staunton River and Seashore, now First Landing.
"Our 34 state parks are special places where we can leave behind life's daily pressures and reconnect with nature, with our families and with our past," Warner said.
Managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Virginia's state park system is the 2001-2003 National Gold Medal award winner for excellence in park and recreation management. The award was presented by the National Sporting Goods Association's Sports Foundation Inc. in cooperation with the National Recreation and Park Association.
For more information about Virginia State Parks call 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or visit the DCR Internet site at <www.dcr.virginia.gov.>
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 11, 2002
Contact: Lois delBueno, DCR public relations specialist, (804) 786-7961
Governor announces Virginia Rivers Month
(RICHMOND, VA) - Following an annual national tradition of celebrating rivers this month, Gov. Mark Warner recently declared June as Virginia Rivers Month. June 2002 also marks the 30th anniversary of the nation's Clean Water Act.
The governor's office issued a proclamation declaring, "Virginia's rivers are arteries of commerce and sources of water and nourishment that benefit our Commonwealth's communities, homes and businesses."
The proclamation encourages all Virginians to use responsibly and preserve Virginia's rivers for the enjoyment of future generations and for the good of the state's environment.
"From the coast to lush green mountains, Virginia communities are surrounded by unrivaled splendor, including Virginia's precious and important rivers," said Joseph H. Maroon, director of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). "The Commonwealth's natural resource base is in part why this state is such a special place to live, work, recreate and visit."
The proclamation also recognizes that Virginia's rivers are among the most beautiful of its natural resources. Nineteen river segments are designated Scenic Rivers; 10 more have been evaluated and qualify for the designation, according to DCR's 2002 Virginia Outdoors Plan.
In addition to their natural benefits, Virginia's rivers are used by industry, for commercial fishing and hydropower. These waterways provide innumerable sources of recreation for the state's citizens and attract visitors to the state.
Of the top 10 recreational activities Virginians enjoy, three are water-dependent: swimming, fishing and boating. Figures from the American Sportfishing Association in 1996 show that state anglers helped create more than 20,000 jobs and $441 million in income.
Citizen demand for "combined" stream use in Virginia - fishing, human-powered boating, rafting and tubing - is projected to increase almost 40 percent by the year 2010.
In the most recent Chesapeake Bay Agreement, a 15-year commitment among Virginia,
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Pennsylvania, Virginia is responsible for developing
66 new river access sites and 500 miles of water trails by the year 2003.
For a public access guide to Virginia's rivers, or information about Adopt-A-Stream
in Virginia, contact the Department of Conservation and Recreation toll-free
at 1-877-42-WATER, or visit the website at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 6, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Governor Warner demonstrates support of 2002 Parks and Natural Areas Bond
(RICHMOND) - Gov. Mark R. Warner demonstrated his support of Virginia's outdoors today with a canoe ride in Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. Shenandoah River State Park in Warren County.
Joined by local officials and outdoor enthusiasts, Warner paddled 3.5 miles before meeting state parks supporters in a nearby picnic shelter to discuss the $119 million 2002 Commonwealth of Virginia Parks and Natural Areas Referendum.
"Passage of the parks and natural areas bond is vitally important for the future of Virginia's natural resources and open spaces," Warner said. "This initiative will protect rare plants and animals and preserve irreplaceable open spaces and endangered natural areas. This will also allow more Virginians more opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors."
Visitation in Virginia State Parks increased from 3.8 million in 1991 to 7.1 million in 2001.
"For too long, Virginia State Parks and natural areas have been overlooked in the funding process, and this needs to change," Warner said. "By voting 'yes' for this bond, Virginians will make lasting, permanent improvements to state parks and natural areas and will increase the quality of life for future generations of Virginians across the commonwealth. Voting 'yes' is the natural choice."
Nationally, Virginia ranks 49th in per capita state spending, 50th in terms of percentage of state budget and 47th in acreage per capita.
"The environmental impact of this bond is important, but equally important is the economic impact," Warner said. "In 2001, state park visitors contributed $144 million to the state's economy, and nearly 40 percent of park visitors come from outside Virginia. The $119 million bond will have a lasting economic impact immediately and for years to come."
Managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Virginia's state park system is the 2001-2003 National Gold Medal award winner for excellence in park and recreation management. The award was presented by the National Sporting Goods Association's Sports Foundation Inc. in cooperation with the National Recreation and Park Association.
The Nature Conservancy recognized Virginia's natural areas program in 1994 as the best in the Western Hemisphere.
"Virginia's environment is first rate, and the envy of the nation," Warner said. "We owe it to our children and to future generations to further protect our natural wonders, and passage of this bond will help do that."
According to a 2001 poll conducted for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, The Nature
Conservancy and the Trust for Public Land, public support for preserving and
protecting state lands is at an all-time high.
- 96 percent believe Virginians owe it to future generations "to protect
land, water and wildlife for their use and enjoyment."
- 89 percent rate "preserving and protecting open space" as important.
- 82 percent of those polled believe Virginia's natural areas soon will be lost
forever unless we act now to protect them.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 3, 2002
Contact: Lenora Rose, (276) 579-7712
Grayson Highlands State Park to host music festival June 15
(RICHMOND) - For a sampling of American roots music popularized by the likes of O Brother, Where Art Thou, bring a lawn chair to the eighth annual Wayne C. Henderson Music Festival and Guitar Competition, Saturday, June 15, at Grayson Highlands State Park.
The event is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Wayne C. Henderson Music Festival and Guitar Competition Committee.
Festival hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. with children's activities from noon to 6 p.m. Admission is $8 per person, and children under 12 with an adult are admitted free.
The day features Grammy award winner David Holt, Eddie Pennington, Big Country Bluegrass, Heritage and the Solomon Branch Band, as well as a performance by Henderson and friends.
The guitar competition begins at 10:30, and performers begin at 11:30. In addition to the live music, visitors can enjoy the park's campground, visitor center and trails.
Grayson Highlands State Park is in Grayson County on U.S. 58 between Independence and Damascus. To reach the park, take I-81 to Marion, follow Route 16 to Volney and then go west on U.S. 58 for eight miles.
For more information about the festival, call the park at (276) 579-7092 or visit the music festival Internet site at <www.ls.net/~wayne/>. For camping reservations call the State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK or visit the DCR site at <www.dcr.virginia.gov>.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 20, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Parks summer season begins Memorial Day weekend
(RICHMOND) - The pools and swimming beaches in Virginia State Parks open for
the summer season Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 25.
"Although our cabins are open year-round, and campgrounds are open March
through December, this weekend represents the 'official' start of summer in
the minds of many people. Vacation season is underway," said Joe Elton,
Department of Conservation and Recreation State Parks director.
Beach swimming is available at Claytor Lake, Hungry Mother, Douthat, Bear Creek
Lake, Kipptopeke, Fairy Stone, Holliday Lake, Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna
and First Landing state parks.
Swimming pools open Memorial Day weekend at Chippokes Plantation, Natural Tunnel,
Staunton River and Westmoreland state parks. The swimming pool at Pocahontas
State Park is closed for the 2002 season for extensive renovations.
Swimming is closed at Twin Lakes State Park because of unusually low water levels
in Goodwin Lake. Swimming will be allowed when water levels return to normal.
"We've created a new swimming policy in our parks," Elton said. "If
you pay to swim and inclement weather closes the swimming area, then we'll give
you a rain check to come back and swim another day. Guaranteed."
The start of summer also marks the opening of concession stands and restaurants
in addition to swimming pools and beaches in Virginia State Parks, which are
managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
"We also have dozens of festivals and concerts and hundreds of interpretive
programs in 34 parks across the state," Elton said.
Virginia's state park system is the 2001-2003 National Gold Medal award winner
for excellence in park and recreation management, presented by the National
Sporting Goods Association's Sports Foundation Inc. in cooperation with the
National Recreation and Park Association.
For more information about Virginia State Parks activities and amenities or
to make reservations in one of the more than 1,400 camp sites or 180 climate
controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK.
Schedules vary for concessions, restaurants and swimming areas at each park. Call the parks directly for individual operating schedules.
Bear Creek Lake State Park o (804) 492-4410
Belle Isle State Park o (804) 462-5030
Caledon Natural Area o (540) 663-3861
Chippokes Plantation State Park o (757) 294-3625
Claytor Lake State Park o (540) 643-2500
Douthat State Park o (540) 862-8100
Fairy Stone State Park o (276) 930-2424
False Cape State Park o (757) 426-7128
First Landing State Park o (757) 412-2300
George Washington's Grist Mill Historic State Park o Call (703) 780-2000 or
(703) 550-0960
Grayson Highlands State Park o (276) 579-7092
Holliday Lake State Park o (434) 248-6308
Hungry Mother State Park o (276) 781-7400
James River State Park o (434) 933-4355
Kiptopeke State Park o (757) 331-2267
Lake Anna State Park o (540) 854-5503
Leesylvania State Park o (703) 670-0372
Mason Neck State Park o (703) 550-0960
Natural Tunnel State Park o (276) 940-2674
Occoneechee State Park o (434) 374-2210
Pocahontas State Parks o (804) 796-4255
Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park o (434) 392-3435
Shenandoah River Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. State Park o (540) 622-6840
New River Trail State Park and Shot Tower o (276) 699-6778
Sky Meadows State Park o (540) 592-3556
Smith Mountain Lake State Park o (540) 297-6066
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park o (276) 523-1322
Staunton River Battlefield State Park o (434) 454-4312
Staunton River State Park o (434) 572-4623
Twin Lakes State Park o (434) 392-3435
Westmoreland State Park o (804) 493-8821
Wilderness Road State Park o (276) 445-3065
York River State Park o (757) 566-3036
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Fees to increase in Virginia State Parks
(RICHMOND) - For the first time in nearly seven years, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is raising the rates in Virginia State Parks, effective April 26, 2002.
"Modest price increases are necessary to maintain the high standards of quality service that our millions of visitors expect," said DCR Director Joseph H. Maroon. "While the state parks budget has remained stagnant or been cut, the system has experienced a nearly decade-long expansion in programs, activities, offerings, and in acreage owned and managed."
Rates will increase for cabin, campground and picnic shelter rentals as well as daily parking and boat launch fees. Lifetime and annual passes will continue to be available and offer a significant savings over daily fees.
Virginia residents will continue to receive discounts on cabin rentals, and discounted parking passes for seniors are still available.
Although the Commonwealth of Virginia ranks 50th in the country in per capita spending on parks, Virginia's state park system is the 2001-2003 National Gold Medal award winner for excellence in park and recreation management, presented by the National Sporting Goods Association's Sports Foundation Inc. in cooperation with the National Recreation and Park Association.
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Office of the Governor
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Governor April 9, 2002
Contact: Ellen Qualls
Phone: (804) 786-2211, x2379
Cell Phone: (804) 393-9429
Internet: www.governor.state.va.us
Governor proposes dedicated revenue source for open space
and improved water quality
RICHMOND - Governor Mark R. Warner announced today that he will amend Senate Bill 592 to impose a $5 per-ton fee on trash deposited in Virginia landfills, a change that he said will bring Virginia more into line with neighboring states and generate needed funds for open space preservation, water quality improvement, recycling, solid waste management, and the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfields and abandoned or contaminated waste sites.
Speaking at a news conference in James River Park in Richmond, the Governor said his plan, known as the Commonwealth Conservation Initiative, represents "an important conservation proposal that will provide a lasting benefit to all Virginians."
"With the proceeds from these additional fees on trash disposal, we will generate more than $75 million annually for the Commonwealth's critical needs in open space preservation and water quality improvement," said Governor Warner.
The amendments are supported by a strong group of legislators from both parties. Among the legislators supporting the proposal are: Speaker of the House Vance Wilkins, President Pro Tempore of the Senate John Chichester, Senate Minority Leader Richard Saslaw, Senators Emmett Hanger, Mary Margaret Whipple, Henry Marsh, Thomas Norment, Bo Trumbo, Ken Stolle, John Edwards, and Creigh Deeds, Delegates Vince Callahan, Kirk Cox, David Albo, Mary Christian, Brian Moran, Vic Thomas, Ken Plum, Harvey Morgan, Jack Rollison, Albert Pollard, Jr., Jeannemarie Devolites, and Frank Hargrove.
"I am pleased that legislators from both parties are strongly supportive of this proposal to help address our growing concern with trash and at the same time provide much needed resources for open space, water quality, parks, and farmland preservation," Governor Warner said. "Virginia has some of the lowest fees for trash in the region, and this increase will properly move us toward parity with other states."
The United State Supreme Court recently declined to hear an appeal of a lower court ruling that a Virginia law banning out-of-state trash was unconstitutional. Virginia is the number two importer of out-of-state trash in the country, behind only Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania legislature is on the verge of raising their current $3.25 tipping fee by as much as five dollars.
The proposal supported by Governor Warner and the legislators would impose a five-dollar per ton fee on solid waste disposed of at a Virginia landfill. The funds generated, approximately $76 million, would be used to:
* Preserve open space through the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation and
the Virginia Outdoors Foundation (40%).
* Provide grants to all Virginia localities for a wide variety of natural resources
purposes (35%).
* Ensure clean water throughout the Commonwealth through the Water Quality Improvement
Fund (19%).
* Assist our inner cities with environmental cleanup and redevelopment through
the Virginia Brownfields Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund
(5%).
* Administer the Fund (1%).
The General Assembly overwhelmingly approved a similar measure in 1999 to impose a tipping fee on trash, but it was subsequently vetoed by then-Governor James Gilmore.
Senate Bill 592 relates to fees charged by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. The bill's sponsor is Senator Emmett Hanger.
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 29, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Sailor's Creek Civil War battle re-enactment April 6-7
(SAILOR'S CREEK, VA.) - The smell of gunpowder will again fill the air at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park during reenactments of the last major battle of the Civil War. Sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Sayler's Creek Reenactment and Preservation Committee Inc., the commemoration of the battle will be April 6-7.
Visitors will return to this quiet crossroads of Virginia for the 137th anniversary of the battle that sealed the fate of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia and precipitated the surrender at nearby Appomattox 72 hours later.
Living history demonstrations are scheduled Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and include Confederate and Federal encampments, demonstrations, and tours of the historic Hillsman House, which served as a Union field hospital. A reenactment of the battle of Little Sailor's Creek will begin Saturday at 1:30 p.m., concluding with a ceremony honoring the men who died on that field of battle. The first reenactment of the battle of Lockett's Farm will be Sunday at 1:30 p.m.
Daily admission, including parking, is $10 per car, $15 per nine-passenger van and $50 per charter bus. Refreshments and Civil War commemorative items will be on sale.
The park is in Amelia County on State Route 617. To reach the park, use State Route 307, a connecting highway between U.S. Routes 360 and 460, then follow the signs to Sailor's Creek. Route 617 between Route 620 and Route 618 will be closed to traffic. Parking is approximately 1.5 miles from the Hillsman House and adjacent to the re-enactors' field camps and the sutler vendors. A shuttle bus will be provided for people needing special assistance.
For more information on the activities at Sailor's Creek, call Twin Lakes State Park at (804) 392-3435.
Campgrounds and cabins at nearby Twin Lakes State Park in Green Bay, Va., are available for overnight accommodations. To make a reservation at this or any other state park campground or cabin, call 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or for more state parks information visit the DCR Internet site at <www.dcr.virginia.gov.>
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 26, 2002
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks creates Youth Conservation Corps
(RICHMOND) - The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is looking for a few good young men and women to serve the Commonwealth of Virginia.
DCR is now accepting applications for the inaugural two-week session of the Virginia State Parks Youth Conservation Corps (YCC), scheduled for July 28 through Aug. 10.
"The Youth Conservation Corps is an exciting and challenging opportunity for students 15-18 years of age to serve the commonwealth," said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton. "Service to others is an honorable, character-building pursuit, and the YCC will fill a need in our parks and in the lives of young people."
YCC participants will assist with an assortment of projects in Virginia State Parks, including wildlife and fisheries habitat improvement, trail and campground construction and restoration, timber and shoreline improvement, and landscape beautification, to name a few, Elton said.
The 2002 YCC camps will be held at Claytor Lake State Park in Dublin; False Cape State Park in Virginia Beach; Hungry Mother State Park in Marion; Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield; Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. Shenandoah River State Park in Warren County; and Westmoreland State Park in Westmoreland County.
"These young people will make permanent and important contributions to our parks," Elton said. "At the same time, they will learn valuable life lessons that will raise their awareness of environmental stewardship, teach them job skills, discipline and the importance of teamwork, and it will improve their self-esteem and confidence."
The YCC is modeled after the federal service program, AmeriCorps, and the depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps that constructed the original six Virginia State Parks.
"The two-week program is open to young men and women between 15 and 18," said YCC Coordinator Gaston Rouse Jr. "YCC crew-members will be provided room, board, tee-shirts and work-related equipment, and will receive a $200 stipend at the end of the two weeks. The memories and experiences they take away will last forever."
Adult supervisors at least 21 years old also are needed for the program.
The YCC application deadline for both students and supervisors is May 1.
"The supervisors will serve as leaders and direct all activities of their crew," Rouse said. "It's a hard job that isn't for everyone, but the rewards are great. Supervisors have the opportunity to make a difference in our parks, and in the lives of the young corps members."
Supervisor applicants will undergo a criminal background check before being hired. Supervisors will receive $28 per diem a $1,000 stipend upon completion of the program.
For more information or an application, contact Rouse at (703) 550-0960, e-mail vspycc@dr.state.va.us.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 21, 2002
Contact: Gary Waugh, Public Relations Manager, (804) 786-5045
Virginia's first flora since 1739 is underway
(Richmond)-- John Clayton, whom Thomas Jefferson considered America's finest botanist, developed Virginia's first and only systematic account of Virginia's flora in 1739. More than 250 years later, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has signed an agreement with the Foundation of the Flora of Virginia Project Inc. supporting the foundation's development of the first comprehensive Virginia flora since Clayton's work.
A flora is an identification manual of plants that grow naturally in an area.
The manual will be used in the field, classroom and library as a key reference
to Virginia's plants.
DCR will provide office space, equipment and staff support to the flora project.
The foundation has lead responsibility for developing the manual and privately
raising the more than $1 million dollars in production costs.
Anyone now interested in Virginia's plant life has to work with out-of-date floras developed for neighboring regions or states. These floras lack critical components to make them accessible to Virginians. The format and text of this new work will be designed for use by Virginia educators to introduce the state's plants to its citizens while greatly enriching the knowledge of our more advanced botanists.
According to DCR Acting Director Leon E. App, a modern flora will help citizens, educators, conservationists, scientists and natural resource professionals provide reliable information about Virginia's plant life. "This resource tool will be useful to citizens, land planners, and local and state political leaders in making more informed land use decisions," said App.
"A well informed public is key to confronting environmental challenges," said Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources W. Tayloe Murphy Jr. "Helping Virginians better understand the natural world is critical to conservation of the natural treasures that sustain us."
A nine-member board leads the foundation. Board members are Dr. Donna Ware, former curator of the College of William and Mary herbarium and a coauthor of the Atlas of the Virginia Flora; Michael Lipford, vice president and Virginia executive director of the Nature Conservancy; Nicky Staunton, president of the Virginia Native Plant Society; Dr. Chip Morgan, representative of the Wintergreen Nature Foundation; Marion Lobstein, vice president of the Virginia Academy of Science; Tom Smith, DCR director of natural heritage; Mike Garson, a Virginia attorney, Joslin Gallatin, formerly with the Foundation of the State Arboretum, and Chris Ludwig, DCR's chief biologist and executive director and board president of the Flora of Virginia Project Foundation Inc.
The flora's primary authors, Ludwig and Alan Weakley, also head a 50-member advisory team of technical experts from across Virginia. Developing a comprehensive statewide flora is expected to take five years. The guide will contain as many as 4,000 illustrations. Ludwig is looking for illustrators interested in working on the flora.
For more information on the Flora of Virginia project contact Chris Ludwig at jcludwig@dcr.virginia.gov or visit the DCR website at http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural_heritage/vaflora.shtml.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Feb. 21, 2002
Contact: Gary Waugh, Public Relations Manager, (804) 786-5045
Tax returns provide means for protecting state's resources
(RICHMOND) - Protecting the commonwealth's open spaces and restoring the health of the Chesapeake Bay are two of the state's leading environmental concerns. Virginians can now help do both when they file their state tax returns.
Schedule ADJ allows taxpayers to contribute any or all their tax refund to either the Open Space Conservation Fund or the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund. And, there's an added benefit: these contributions are tax-deductible on next year's income tax returns.
"A recent survey of Virginians revealed that 92 percent felt it was important to protect open space resources," said W. Tayloe Murphy Jr., Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources. "The Chesapeake Bay is also seen as both a state and national treasure. Contributions to either fund helps preserve these resources critical to the commonwealth and to future generations."
Designate your voluntary contribution on line 24 of Schedule ADJ, to accompany the individual income tax return Form 760. If you choose the "Open Space Conservation and Recreation Fund," write in the code numbers 6-8. If you choose the "Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund," write in the code numbers 7-1.
These voluntary contribution funds are an easy means of supporting natural resources in Virginia. Money designated for the Open Space fund has helped purchase state natural area preserves that protect rare species. This fund is also used to acquire land for recreational purposes and as matching grants to localities for meeting their community outdoor recreational needs.
Contributing to the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund has been an option for several years, and the level of funding is on the rise. The money is spent on pollution-reducing projects throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed, which makes up over half of the state's land mass.
Of course, Virginia taxpayers who don't receive refunds can also contribute to these funds directly.
Contact the Virginia Department of Taxation at (804) 367-8031 or online at www.tax.state.va.us. For questions about either contribution fund, call the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation at (804) 786-7961.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 6, 2002
Contact: Lois delBueno, Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-7961
Virginia poultry farmers meet deadline for required nutrient management plans
(RICHMOND, VA) Nutrient management plans have been approved for 1,068 poultry operations across the state covering 121,848 acres of agricultural land receiving poultry waste. These plans were developed by the Oct. 1, 2001 deadline for regulatory permits established through legislation two years ago. The plans were approved by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
According to department officials, these statistics account for at least 98 percent of farms identified as requiring a permit. In the Commonwealth, poultry producers with more than 11,000 turkeys or more than 20,000 chickens are required to have Virginia Pollution Abatement (VPA) General Permit to regulate the storage and land application of poultry waste.
The permit is accompanied by a DCR-approved nutrient management plan that outlines steps to prevent waste from running off land and into state waters.
Public- and private-sector professional plan writers, poultry companies and growers all had roles in meeting the deadline.
"We should acknowledge poultry companies' assistance determining which growers needed updated or new plans, collecting litter samples and helping schedule farm visits," said Leon E. App, DCR acting director.
While some growers in Virginia had existing plans, those needed modification to meet additional requirements of the regulation. For many operations, however, plans had to be developed and written.
Each nutrient management plan identifies adequate poultry waste storage sites that meet the requirements of the legislation. These are: poultry waste stockpiles must be covered within 14 days, new storage facilities can't be in the 100-year floodplain or on soils with a water table in close proximity to the surface, and must prevent contact with surface or ground water. The legislation also requires periodic soil and waste monitoring to determine nutrient levels. Plans developed or revised after October 1, 2001 must be limited on both nitrogen and phosphorus.
"Cooperation from the Virginia Poultry Federation and poultry companies was invaluable in achieving a monumental task," said Jack E. Frye, DCR soil and water conservation director. "This illustrates partnerships we've fostered to continue a conservation ethic in the agricultural community."
Twenty-one meetings around the state covered the permitting process, nutrient management planning and options for managing poultry litter. These meetings were critical for educating growers and relaying the importance of beginning the process as early as possible. DCR, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Virginia Poultry Federation and Virginia poultry companies conducted the meetings. More than 1,200 poultry growers, managers and poultry company representatives attended.
For more information, call Scott Ambler at DCR at (804) 786-2235.
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For Immediate Release
Issued by the Office of the Governor
Date: November 30, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner, Department of Conservation and Recreation
Phone: (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks named best in the nation
RICHMOND - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced that Virginia's state park system has been recognized for excellence in park management as the National Gold Medal and State Park Award winner, an award presented by the National Sporting Goods Association's Sports Foundation, Inc. in cooperation with the National Recreation and Park Association. Dixie Sporting Goods Co. of Richmond nominated the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, which manages Virginia's state parks.
"This national recognition verifies what Virginians have known for years -- that our state parks are among the best in the country," said Governor Gilmore. "This recognition from such a prestigious association will help showcase our state parks as an attractive destination for Virginians and visiting tourists."
The National Sporting Goods Association is the world's largest sporting goods trade association, representing more than 22,000 retailer/dealer outlets and 3,000 suppliers, product manufacturers and sales agents. Its sports foundation began the gold medal awards in 1965 and added a state parks category in 1997. The National Gold Medal and State Park Award is given in odd-numbered years to honor the nation's outstanding state park system for excellence in the field of park and recreation management and their contributions in providing park, recreation and leisure services to the citizens of their state.
"In managing Virginia's state parks, we have remained true to the original vision established in the 1930s, " said DCR Director David Brickley. "We've done this by actively managing our natural resources, retaining the natural beauty of our parks and complementing that beauty by incorporating modern improvements like central air and heat in cabins and state-of-the-art environmental education centers. Our state parks have benefited from the combined expertise of our department staff in areas such as open space and recreational planning, the use of conservation best management practices, natural heritage resource management and even dam management."
Six Virginia state parks opened June 15, 1936, making Virginia the first state in the United States to dedicate all of its parks on the same day. Many of those facilities have been restored and are still in use today.
"Hundreds of DCR employees and countless volunteers dedicated tens of thousands of hours of hard work over 65 years to make Virginia state parks the best in the nation," said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton. "Virginia now joins an elite list of state park systems honored with the Gold Medal."
A finalist two years ago, Virginia joins the 1999 winner, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Recreation and Parks, and 1997's winner, the Ohio Division of Parks and Recreation.
For more information about Virginia state parks' activities and amenities or to make reservations, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK or visit the DCR web site at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 14, 2001
Contact: Gary Waugh, PR Manager, (804) 786-5045
Local operators first to be designated "Virginia Clean Marinas"
(Williamsburg) - Five local marinas have become the first in the state to earn designation as a Virginia Clean Marina. The designation is part of a new voluntary program seeking to reduce pollution in Virginia's coastal waters by helping marinas and recreational boaters become more environmentally sensitive.
Marinas receiving the designation today in a ceremony at Two Rivers Yacht Club in Williamsburg were Ginny Point Marina, Cobbs Creek; Hampton Public Piers, Hampton; Salt Ponds Marina Resort, Hampton; Severn River Marina, Hayes; and Two Rivers Yacht Club. The awards were presented by Virginia Assistant Secretary of Natural Resources Elwyn Darden and David G. Brickley, director, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
The marinas are also recognized with "Environmental Enterprise" status in the Virginia Environmental Excellence Program, which offers incentives to encourage the adoption of environmental management systems and pollution prevention efforts.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science have worked with the Tidewater Marine Trades Association, the Virginia Association of Marine Industries and others in the private sector to develop the Virginia Clean Marina Program. It provides technical assistance and voluntary recognition for marinas and other boating access points.
"We're pleased to recognize these marinas for being the first to meet the requirements of clean marina designation," said Darden. "Their voluntary efforts will help ensure Virginians will always be able to enjoy our waterways." Approximately 1,000 marinas in Virginia are eligible to vie for recognition as a "Virginia Clean Marina."
"These marina operators have backed up their pledges to participate by meeting the stringent criteria set forth by this new program," said Brickley. "This shows their commitment to the future of Virginia's water quality. But hopefully promoting themselves as a Virginia Clean Marina will also have tangible results for their business today." Studies of similar programs in other states have shown that marinas recognized as environmentally friendly have lower vacancy rates.
The Virginia Coastal Program at DEQ funds the program through a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A Marina Technical and Environmental Advisory Committee made up of representatives from state agencies, the marine trade industry, and the recreational boating and environmental communities has developed a Virginia Clean Marina Guidebook that provides steps marina operators and recreational boaters can take to protect and improve Virginia's coastal waters. The committee also assists in the program's marina designation process.
Marinas seeking designation can complete a self-assessment checklist followed by a site visit by members of the advisory committee. The Marina Technical Assistance Program at VIMS will work with the marina to meet minimum program requirements. Marina operators seeking more information on the program can visit the Clean Marina website at http://www.deq.state.va.us/vacleanmarina/.
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Virginia State Parks offers free admission Veterans Day weekend to support national "weekend of unity and hope"
(RICHMOND) - Virginia State Parks will waive all parking and admission fees over the Veteran's Day holiday weekend, Nov. 10-12, in support of the recovery efforts of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
"Like our counterparts in the national parks, we'll open our gates this holiday weekend with free admission," said DCR Director David Brickley. "Our tears, thoughts and prayers have been with the victims, their families, and everyone in the nation effected by this tragedy. We encourage every Virginian to get into the great outdoors and demonstrate that, while we are united in this ongoing time of crisis, it is important to refresh our spirits by taking time to enjoy the beauty of nature."
Interior Secretary Gale Norton has declared Veterans Day weekend a "weekend of unity and hope," and admission fees in national parks will be waived.
Virginia State Parks are open year-round from 8 a.m. to dusk.
"Virginia State Parks are a tonic for the mind, body and spirit," said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton. "Our 34 state parks are each special places where we can leave behind society's daily demands and pressures, rest, reflect, recuperate and recharge mentally and emotionally. For 65 years, during troubled times of turmoil, Virginia State Parks have been a tranquil refuge. We invite all Virginians to visit a state park this Veterans Day weekend and fish, hike, bike, canoe, picnic, ride horses, enjoy the fall foliage, or simply sit back, relax and do nothing at all."
For more information about Virginia State Parks activities and amenities or to make reservations, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 12, 2001
Contact: Gary Waugh, PR Manager, (804) 786-5045
100-mile water trail provides information and access to the lower Potomac - "A River of History"
(RICHMOND) - Increased enjoyment of the Potomac River and more opportunities for river-related tourism dollars are among the intended results of the new Potomac River water trail. A packaged set of six maps covers 100 miles of river from the Nation's Capital to the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay and a total of 89 sites in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) developed the Potomac River water trail as a joint project. DCR received a matching grant from the National Park Service to develop the trail as part of the Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network, a system of water trails, parks, refuges and other maritime sites in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
"The Potomac River Water Trail is one of the country's first water trails being developed jointly by two states in cooperation with the National Park Service," said DCR Director David G. Brickley. "Recognized as an American Heritage River, the Potomac has the natural and historic resources to make this a trail a world-class attraction."
"Nationally, water trails are becoming one of the most popular components of the growing eco-tourism trade," said Verna E. Harrison, Assistant Secretary of Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Programs for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. "Providing an enhanced recreational and educational experience also helps foster a greater appreciation for our waterways."
The six-map set highlights access points from D.C. to the Chesapeake along both sides of the river. Information is provided on each access point including the availability of restrooms, boating facilities, historical interest, overnight accommodations, camping and food service. It is one of the first water trail guides to include GPS (Global Positioning System) information on access sites. The guides also include boating safety tips and emergency phone numbers.
"This is a guide that every boater, kayaker and canoeist will want to keep on hand," said Brickley. "It will become an invaluable part of any trip along this part of the Potomac."
Planners from DCR and DNR met with local government officials, chambers of commerce and others to develop the trail's concept and details for the map guides. Many of the 89 access sites included in the maps are locally owned and operated. Local attractions are seen as one of the primary beneficiaries of the new guide.
In addition, the water trail helps meet the public access commitments in the new Chesapeake Bay Agreement - Chesapeake 2000. Virginia, Maryland and the National Park Service are all members of the cooperative Chesapeake Bay Program, a watershed partnership to restore and protect the Bay and its rivers.
The guides can be purchased for $5 at Virginia and Maryland state parks along the Potomac River. Maps can also be ordered by calling the Virginia DCR reservation center at 1-800-933-PARK or by calling the Maryland Greenway Commission at (410) 260-8780. Handling and postage will be charged for maps ordered by phone.
For more information on water trails or other outdoor recreation opportunities visit the Virginia DCR website at www.dcr.virginia.gov, the Maryland DNR site at www.dnr.state.md.us or the Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network site at www.baygateways.net.
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Locations where the Potomac River Water Trail map guides are available:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Aug. 30, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Grayson Highlands State Park to Host 25th Annual Fall Festival
(MOUTH OF WILSON, Va.) -- Grayson Highlands State Park's 25th Annual Fall Festival will be Sept. 29 and 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. There is a $4 per day parking fee.
"Southwest Virginia has some the most beautiful fall foliage on the East Coast," said Park Manager Harvey Thompson. "The Fall Festival at Grayson Highlands is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the early autumn beauty."
Sponsored by the Rugby Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department, the festival features live bluegrass, old-time and gospel music, food, children activities and arts and crafts exhibits.
Ponies from the Wilburn Ridge Pony Association will be auctioned at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The wild ponies graze in the park and adjoining U.S. Forest Service's Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the park's picnic areas, visitor center and hiking and biking trails. Park campgrounds will be open through Dec. 3, 2000.
Grayson Highlands State Park is on U.S. 58 midway between Independence, Va., and Damascus, Va., or 35 miles south of Marion, Va. From Interstate 81 at Exit 45 in Marion, go south on Route 16 to Volney, Va., then U.S. 58 west for eight miles.
For more information about the festival, call the park at (540) 579?7092. Campgrounds at Grayson Highlands are sold out for the festival. For campground or cabin reservations at nearby Hungry Mother State Park in Marion, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK or in Richmond (804) 225-3867.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Aug. 30, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks offer hunting opportunities statewide
(RICHMOND, Va.) - The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is now accepting reservations and applications for deer hunts to be held this fall in Virginia State Parks.
"The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in its management of Virginia State Parks, works closely with the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) to help maintain the best possible wildlife management practices," said Secretary of Natural Resources John Paul Woodley Jr.
All hunting laws and regulations apply in Virginia State Parks. Additional rules may apply in individual parks, and all lottery and reservation hunts have special regulations.
Special lottery hunts will be held at False Cape State Park Oct. 6 and Oct. 8-13. The application deadline is Sept. 7 and the application fee is $5 per application.
Several parks will offer hunting opportunities by reservation: muzzleloading/archery
hunts at York River State Park Nov. 5-6 and Nov.8-9, and Smith Mountain Lake
Nov. 7 - 10; muzzleloading hunt at Caledon Natural Area Nov. 7-9; shotgun hunt
at Chippokes Plantation State Park, Dec. 4 and 11; shotgun/archery hunt at York
River State Park Dec. 6-7; and
York River State Park's special Women in the Woods shotgun/archery hunt Dec.
8.
Reservation periods for these hunts are: York River muzzleloading/archery Sept. 6 - Nov. 2, Caledon Muzzleloading Aug. 15 - Nov. 2, Smith Mountain Lake muzzleloading/archery Sept. 12 - Nov. 2, Chippokes shotgun Oct. 3 - Nov. 29, York River shotgun/archery Oct. 10 - Dec. 3, and York River Women in the Woods hunt Oct. 17- Dec. 3. Hunters may reserve preferred days and stands or zones for an advanced fee of $15 a day.
Open hunting will be offered this season in designated areas of five state parks: Fairy Stone in Patrick and Henry counties; Grayson Highlands in Grayson County; Hungry Mother in Smyth County; Occoneechee in Mecklenburg County; and Pocahontas in Chesterfield County.
Chippokes Plantation State Park will offer a special Southern Heritage Deer Hunt on Saturday, Dec. 1, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. This traditional 19th century hunt features three southern meals, a blessing of the hounds and more. The cost is $250 per adult, $150 for children 12-17 and $50 for non-hunting companions. Reservations are required. Overnight accommodations are available to registered hunters by calling the park at (757) 294-3625.
Several state parks are in or near state forests, national forests or wildlife management areas that allow hunting. State parks with overnight accommodations are convenient and economical base camps for hunting anywhere in the area. These parks offer maps, tips, advice and affordable camping or cabin accommodations only minutes from the field. Campsites are available through Dec. 2, 2001, and most cabins are open year-round.
For information on hunting licenses, hunter safety education and hunting regulations, call the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries at (804) 367-1000 or visit the DGIF web site at www.dgif.state.va.us.
For more information about hunting opportunities and programs in Virginia State Parks, lottery hunt applications or reservations, or camping or cabin reservations, call 1-800-933-PARK or in Richmond, 225-3867. For more information about Virginia State Parks, visit the DCR homepage at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
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Editors' Note: Call Jim Meisner at (804) 786-8442 for a selection of color slides of the parks and overnight accommodations.
Virginia State Parks that allow hunting
Caledon Natural Area, (540) 663-3861
Chippokes Plantation State Park, (757) 294-3625
Fairy Stone State Park, (540) 930-2424
False Cape State Park, (757) 426-7128
Grayson Highlands State Park, (540) 579-7092
Hungry Mother State Park, (540) 781-7400
Occoneechee State Park, (804) 374-2210
Pocahontas State Park, (804) 796-4255
Smith Mountain Lake State Park, (540) 297-6066
York River State, (757) 566-3036
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Aug. 22, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Park employees receive NAC certification
(RICHMOND) - Six Virginia State Parks employees recently completed the National Association of Concessionaires' (NAC) Concession Manager Certification Program. The employees are: Business Manager Gloristine Evins, Chippokes Plantation State Park; Assistant Park Manager David Floyd, Lake Anna State Park; Chief Ranger Russell Johnson, Leesylvania State Park; Chief Ranger Chip Adams, Fairy Stone State Park; Business Manager Ishmael Richardson and Chief Ranger Robert Chapman, Natural Tunnel State Park.
"As the economy causes belt tightening in the business world, state government is enhancing employee training to achieve greater efficiencies in operations and to enhance our visitor's experience," said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton. "Sending our business, retail and food service managers through this rigorous program gives us another tool to make our parks better."
NAC's Concession Manager Certification Program is America's premier recreational food service education program, providing the tools to manage efficiently and boost the bottom line.
The four-day program includes 25 hours of instruction with extensive emphasis on topics essential to a concession manager, including planning, cost-control systems, menu planning and event planning.
More than 500 industry professionals have been certified through this program, which is based on the curriculum at the School of Hospitality Management at Florida International University in Miami, and the School of Human Sciences Department of Nutrition and Food Science at Auburn University in Alabama.
"After completing this program, our people are now among the industry's elite," Elton said. "More state parks staff will receive this training in the future. Eventually, all of our retail and food service managers will achieve this new level of excellence."
Virginia State Parks, managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, are on the cutting edge of effective concessions management.
"Our visitors deserve the best park experience possible," Elton said, "and one way we can make their time with us more enjoyable is to give our staff the best training available."
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Aug. 18, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks to host nature photography
workshops
(RICHMOND, VA.)-- All the natural beauty of Virginia State Parks will be on display at three fall nature photography workshops, taught by award-winning professional photographers Bill and Linda Lane and sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Shutterbugs of all abilities can learn to work with natural light in the beauty of nature's studio. These learning vacations are filled with hands-on instruction in the field, question and answer sessions, demonstrations and plenty of one-on-one assistance.
Nature photography workshops will be held at Douthat State Park, Sept. 21-23, Hungry Mother State Park, Oct. 12-14 and False Cape State Park, Oct. 26-28. The cost of the two-day, weekend workshops includes lodging and meals.
Douthat State Park, Clifton Forge, Va.
Sept. 21-23
With Virginia's breathtaking mountain scenery as a backdrop, a 50-acre lake
and miles of trails to scenic overlooks, Douthat State Park is an outdoor photographer's
dream. Lodging is provided in Douthat's cabins, which offer kitchens, bathrooms,
linens, heating and air conditioning. The cost is $275 per person.
Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, Va.
Oct. 12-14
Deep in the heart of the southwestern Blue Ridge highlands, with breathtaking
views, a 108-acre lake and many streams, this is an ideal location to capture
autumn's vibrant colors. Lodging will be in the park's modern cabins, which
offer kitchens, bathrooms,
linens, heating and air conditioning. The $275 per person cost includes side
trips to a series of cascading streams and small waterfalls as well as to one
of the highest peaks in Virginia.
False Cape State Park, Virginia Beach, Va.
Oct. 26-28
Nestled between Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and North Carolina's Outer
Banks, this remote park is the perfect place to study wildlife photography and
the spectacular fall migration of songbirds, water fowl and birds of prey. The
workshop begins Friday at 4 p.m. at the Little Island Recreation Area, where
you'll leave your car and ride a private bus to the park. Lodging will be in
the dorm-style Washwood Environmental Education Center. The cost is $275 per
person.
Bill Lane's work has been featured in Sierra Club magazine, Virginia Wildlife, Style Weekly, Outdoor and Travel Photography and the Richmond Times Dispatch. His many awards include the Sierra Club's prestigious National Photography Contest, and he has participated in several group exhibitions. Lane is a frequent lecturer and photography contest judge.
Space in the workshops is limited, and reservations are now being accepted. For more information about the workshops, call Linda Lane at (804) 883-7740.
For more information about Virginia State Parks activities and amenities or to make reservations for a photography workshop, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK or in Richmond (804) 225-3867.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 3, 2001
Contacts: Susan Clark, Trust for Public Land, (347)675-5824
Gary Waugh, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, (804) 786-5045
1,400 acres preserved by conservation easement
New Virginia Natural Area Preserve established
(KING GEORGE) - Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources John Paul Woodley, Jr. announced today that along the Potomac River, 1,431 acres of shoreline, hardwood forests, eagle habitat, farm fields, creeks and marshes will be preserved in perpetuity as the result of actions by nonprofit and agency partners. The secretary announced that conservation easements that prohibit future subdivision of a privately owned farm, limit development of buildings and allow continued agricultural usage have been acquired.
In addition, 1,107 acres have been dedicated as a Virginia Natural Area Preserve and 35 acres of pasture will be restored to wetlands. The land remains in private ownership and is not open to the public.
The agreement with the landowner, James Nash, was negotiated by the Trust for Public Land, a national nonprofit land conservation organization, which orchestrated a partnership of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Virginia Outdoors Foundation, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy and the Army Corps of Engineers.
"This is a tremendously significant piece of property," said Secretary Woodley. "When combined with Caledon Natural Area, five miles of Potomac River shoreline and more than 4,000 acres of forest, farmland and marshes have been preserved as prime American Bald Eagle habitat. These preservation actions also move us closer to meeting the land preservation goals set in the new Chesapeake Bay Agreement."
The property has approximately 350 acres of open fields and pasture. The remainder is a mix of upland and bottomland hardwood forests and approximately 250 acres of tidal marshes along Chotank Creek. The farm also has three eagle nests, all active last year.
The Virginia Outdoors Foundation and Chesapeake Bay Foundation will monitor and enforce the easements. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation will develop and implement a resource management plan for the newly established, 1,107-acre Chotank Creek Natural Area Preserve. The Nature Conservancy, using funds from the Virginia Wetlands Restoration Trust Fund administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will restore approximately 35 acres of pasture into wetlands.
"The Chotank Creek Natural Area Preserve marks only the second time that
private land has been dedicated in Virginia," said DCR Director David G.
Brickley. "We hope Mr. Nash's efforts will help start a trend."
"We are pleased to have been able to bring together many partners to make
this important conservation transaction possible and are grateful to Mr. Nash
and his family for ensuring the permanent protection of this important property,"
said Debi Osborne, Chesapeake Field Office director for the Trust for Public
Land. "Protecting this important property preserves not only land of local
and historical significance, but also protects the Potomac River and the Chesapeake
Bay watershed."
Mr. Nash has lived on the property since the early 1940s and has long been interested in preservation efforts. Beginning in the early 1980s Mr. Nash served on the task force appointed by then-Governor Charles Robb, to develop a management plan for Caledon Natural Area. He also hopes to establish a private foundation to own and manage the land in future generations. "I hope that this may become a living educational example," said Mr. Nash.
This 4,000-acre area is one of the most significant summering spots for the American Bald Eagle on the East Coast, with more than 60 eagles spotted at one time.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 1, 2001
Contact: Gary Waugh, PR Manager, (804) 786-5045
Virginia's coastal nonpoint source pollution control plan receives federal approval
(RICHMOND) - Virginia becomes only the sixth of 33 states, commonwealths or territories eligible to have its Coastal Nonpoint Program approved by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Failure to achieve program approval could have potentially cost the state up to $6 million per year in federal funding.
"Controlling nonpoint source pollution is a complex issue because of its many, diffuse sources," said Secretary Woodley. "The approval of Virginia's coastal nonpoint source program is the result of a comprehensive effort across many fronts, with many partners involved." The Virginia DCR is responsible for developing and amending the nonpoint source control program.
The approval became official with today's signing of Virginia's plan in Washington, D.C. Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources John Paul Woodley, Jr. was joined at the signing by Department of Conservation and Recreation Director David G. Brickley and Department of Environmental Quality Deputy Director David Johnson. Representing NOAA was National Ocean Service Deputy Assistant Administrator Jamison Hawkins and Don Welsh, Region III Administrator, represented the U.S. EPA.
Virginia's coastal nonpoint source pollution, or runoff pollution, control program covers 46 localities with tidal waters. This is roughly the entire area east of Interstate 95. In 1998, Virginia received conditional approval of its program, contingent on successfully addressing concerns in nine management areas - agriculture, forestry, urban, wetlands and riparian, marinas and recreational boating, hydromodifications, technical assistance, monitoring, and roads highways and bridges.
Actions taken to satisfy the federal government's conditions include:
Virginia's development of nutrient reduction tributary strategies for all river basins flowing into the Chesapeake Bay was cited as helping satisfy conditions under several of the management areas. The strategies are the result of Virginia's continuing voluntary participation in the multi-state Chesapeake Bay Program.
A complete listing of the NOAA/EPA Decisions on Conditions of Approval can be found on the DCR website at http://www.state.va.us/dcr/sw/docs/czokltr.pdf.
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Date: May 11, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks offers two new vacation guides
(RICHMOND) - When you're looking to make plans for summer fun in the commonwealth, look no further than the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's 2001 editions of two Virginia State Parks brochures and vacation guides.
"These brochures are a wonderful first step in planning a Virginia vacation or a weekend getaway," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Director David G. Brickley. "The 16-page Virginia State Parks guide offers descriptions of every state park, information about camping, cabins, accessibility and a two-page amenity chart that explains what each park offers."
The Virginia State Parks 2001 Outdoor Adventures Guide and Calendar introduces visitors to exciting outdoor adventures.
"These outdoor programs and activities represent the best Virginia State Parks have to offer for all ages," said DCR State Parks Director Joe Elton. "You can travel from park to park and always find something to do, well into the fall. We have a wide variety of classes, from photography to panning for gold, and of course a strong emphasis on outdoor skills like camping, canoeing, backpacking and fishing."
Both brochures are available statewide at Virginia Welcome Centers, local visitor centers, all Virginia State Parks, and other select locations or by calling 1-800-933-PARK, or in Richmond, 225-3867. Bulk orders are available by calling the DCR at (804) 786-1712.
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Date: May 1, 2001
Contact: Lenora Rose, (540) 579-7712
Grayson Highlands State Park to host music festival June 16
(RICHMOND) -- Bring a lawn chair or blanket to the seventh annual Wayne C. Henderson Music Festival and Guitar Competition, Saturday, June 16, at Grayson Highlands State Park, sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Festival hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. with children's activities from noon to 6 p.m. Admission is $7 per person, and children under 12 with an adult are admitted free.
The festival features bluegrass bands Lost and Found, Southern Pride, Linda Lay and Appalachian Trail as well as a performance by Wayne C. Henderson and friends.
In addition to the live music, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the park's picnic areas, campgrounds, visitor center, and hiking and bridle trails.
Grayson Highlands State Park is in Grayson County on U.S. 58 between Independence and Damascus. To reach the park, take I-81 to Marion, follow Route 16 to Volney and then go west on U.S. 58 for eight miles.
For more information about the festival, contact the park at (540) 579-7092, or visit the music festival Internet site at www.ls.net/~grayson//grcoanev.html. For more information about other state parks or for camping reservations, call the State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK, or in Richmond 225-3867.
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Date: April 24, 2001
Contact: Jim Meisner, Jr., DCR Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-8442
Belle Isle State Park to host Virginia Outdoor Day May 5
(RICHMOND) - Youngsters and the young at heart can learn more about outdoor recreation at the Virginia Outdoors Day, Saturday, May 5, at Belle Isle State Park in Lancaster County. Sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, the many demonstrations, displays and activities will be held rain or shine from 10 a.m. to 4.p.m.
A wide variety of outdoor activities are planned, from canoeing, fly fishing and archery lessons to decoy carving, muzzleloading and retriever demonstrations.
The $2 per vehicle parking fee will be waived for vehicles with a child under 17. Lunch will be sold from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Local participants and sponsors include the Northern Neck Paddlers Association, Lively Boy Scout Troop 222, Westmoreland Longhunters Association, the Northern Neck Wild Turkey Association, the Northern Neck Field Trial Association, Students of Claiborne Farm, the Rappahannock Retriever Club, the Rappahannock Ducks Unlimited Chapter, The Rappahannock Decoy Carvers Guild and the Northern Neck Audubon Society.
For more information, contact the park at (804) 462-5030, or DGIF at (804) 367-6351. For more information about other state parks, call the State Parks Reservation Center at 1-800-933-PARK, or in Richmond 225-3867, or visit the DCR site at www.dcr.virginia.gov. For more information about outdoor education programs, visit the DGIF site at www.dgif.state.va.us.
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Date: April 9, 2001
Contact: Gary Waugh, DCR Public Relations Manager, (804) 786-5045
Bill Hayden, DEQ Public Affairs Manager, (804) 698-4447
Robert Beals, Special Assistant, Secretary of Natural Resources, (804) 786-0044
Strategy to "cap" nutrient reductions
in the Shenandoah
and Potomac river basins released for public comment
(Richmond) -- Public comment is being sought on a new strategy to maintain the current reduced levels of the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus flowing into the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. The strategy also outlines a process needed to initiate efforts to achieve greater reductions over the next decade.
The public comment draft of the Interim Nutrient Cap Strategy for the Shenandoah and Potomac River Basins was released by Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources John Paul Woodley, Jr. March 30, as part of Virginia's continuing commitment to improving water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
"This strategy is an important part of a continuing process to improve the water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and the rivers that flow into it," said Woodley. "It is the next step in our quest to achieve and maintain the water quality necessary to support the aquatic living resources of the Bay and its tributaries." Excess nitrogen and phosphorus rob water of oxygen and have a negative impact on aquatic living resources and their habitat.
The goal to improve water quality is found in the new Chesapeake Bay Agreement signed last year by Governor Gilmore and governors from Maryland and Pennsylvania, the mayor of Washington, D.C., the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator and Virginia Senator William T. Bolling, chairman of the Chesapeake Bay Commission. The agreement calls for the water quality goal to be met voluntarily by 2010 in order to avoid federal regulations.
The interim cap strategy seeks to maintain the levels of nutrient reductions achieved through implementation the 1996 Shenandoah and Potomac Nutrient Reduction Tributary Strategy. Maintaining these levels in the face of increased population growth and corresponding land use changes is the strategy's main challenge.
"We must go beyond those measures that were successful in the original
tributary strategy," said Woodley. "This will mean continued improvements
in wastewater treatment facilities and increased emphasis on the control of
stormwater particularly in urban and suburban settings. It will also mean increased
efforts to let all residents of the watershed know they
have a key role in these water quality issues."
The draft strategy lists a number of proposed actions to slow the flow of nutrients into area waters. It also proposes developing a process to determine lines of responsibility and to track all future nutrient flows. This tracking and accounting system will be needed to meet future nutrient reduction goals.
The draft strategy is the result of numerous stakeholder and focus group meetings
held in the watershed over the past year. Copies of the draft have been mailed
to local governments and other interested stakeholders for review and comment.
Comments will be accepted through
June 1, 2001.
Three public information meetings will be held to review the draft and receive comments. Meetings will be held Friday, April 27 in Colonial Beach (exact location to be determined) at 3:30 p.m.; Tuesday, May 1 at the DEQ Northern Virginia Regional Office, 13901 Crown Court in Woodbridge at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.; and at the DEQ Valley Regional Office, 4411 Early Road, Harrisonburg at 2 p.m., Thursday, May 3. Each meeting is scheduled for two hours.
The strategy can be reviewed on the Internet at either www.dcr.virginia.gov or www.deq.state.va.us. To receive a copy of the strategy or for more information on the public meetings call toll-free 1-877-42WATER.
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Date: February 23, 2001
Contact: Gary Waugh, PR Manager, (804) 786-8442
Virginia State Parks campgrounds open March 1
(RICHMOND, VA) - There's something special about the warmth of a campfire, the tranquility of the great outdoors and the sense of peace that can only be found when you're camping. The unique and special memories of camping can be yours again in a Virginia State Park.
Thursday, March 1, marks the opening of the 2001 camping season in Virginia State Parks.
"We have camping opportunities from the mountains to the beaches of the Chesapeake Bay," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Director David Brickley. "State park campsites are designed to ensure privacy, safety and comfort."
Virginia State Parks offer more than 1,000 campsites ranging from primitive tent sites to recreational vehicle sites with electrical and water hook-ups.
"Cabins in Virginia State Parks - a popular vacation getaway choice - are already open," said State Parks Director Joe Elton. "Spending the night in a cabin or at a campsite is one of the most rewarding and enriching ways to enjoy a Virginia State Park."
For more information about spending the night in a Virginia State Park, call 1-800-933-PARK, in Richmond 225-3867.
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Date: Jan. 23, 2001
Contact: Lois delBueno, Public Relations Specialist, (804) 786-7961
Use tax refunds to protect land and improve environment
(RICHMOND) - Looking for an easy way to help Virginia's environment and natural resources, or help provide outdoor recreation in your community? If you're receiving a state tax refund you can donate any or all of it for such use.
Designate your voluntary contribution on lines 20 and 21 of Schedule ADJ, to accompany the Virginia Tax Return (760). If you choose the "Open Space Conservation and Recreation Fund," write in the numbers 6-8. If you choose the "Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund," write in the numbers 7-1. A contribution to either helps preserve resources critical to the commonwealth and to future generations.
"Many citizens, through voluntary actions like donating private land or participating in Adopt-A-Stream, maintaining our state parks and volunteering in state natural areas, demonstrate an enormous stewardship ethic," said David G. Brickley, director of Virginia's Department of Conservation and Recreation. "These voluntary contribution funds allow a quick mechanism to provide additional support."
And, there's an additional benefit to you: these contributions are tax-deductible.
Money designated for the Open Space fund has helped purchase state natural areas such as Bushmill Stream (Northumberland County), North Landing River (Virginia Beach), Poor Mountain (Roanoke) and the Pinnacle (Russell County). It has also provided for public access and interpretive signage for the Natural Area Preserve System. Rare species protected by fund monies include cranberry, least bittern and pirate bush, as well as rare freshwater mussels and fish in the Clinch River.
This fund is used to acquire land for recreational purposes and as matching grants to localities for meeting outdoor recreational needs.
Contributing to the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund has been an option for only a couple years, yet contributions are increasing. Recently the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced the state met a goal of reducing nutrients in the Shenandoah-Potomac rivers, thereby lessening the nonpoint source pollution affecting a portion of the Chesapeake Bay.
However, there are similar goals yet to be met for the James, York and Rappahannock
rivers. Monies from the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund would be used toward
those efforts.
Virginia taxpayers who aren't receiving refunds can always contribute to these
funds directly by mailing a check, payable to Treasurer of Virginia, to DCR
/ 203 Governor St., Suite 302 / Richmond, Virginia 23219.
If you contribute your refund to either the Open Space Recreation and Conservation or the Chesapeake Bay Restoration fund, you can list the amounts as itemized deductions on your 2001 federal and state income tax forms.
If you have questions about contributing to these funds, contact the Virginia Department of Taxation at (804) 367-8031 or online at www.tax.state.va.us. For questions about either contribution fund, call the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation at (804) 786-7961 or check the Internet at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
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Editors' note: digital photos of some natural areas and species listed in release available by contacting Lois delBueno at DCR at (804) 786-7961 or ldelbueno@dcr.virginia.gov.
NEWS RELEASE (through SNR's office)
Date: January 12, 2001
Contact: Robert Beals, Special Assistant, Secretary of Natural Resources, (804)
786-0044
Gary Waugh, Department of Conservation and Recreation, (804) 786-5045
Bill Hayden, Department of Environmental Quality, (804) 698-4447
Clean Marina Program to help improve coastal water quality
(Richmond) - Reducing nonpoint source pollution in Virginia's coastal waters by helping marinas and recreational boaters become more environmentally sensitive is the goal of a new, voluntary state program. Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources John Paul Woodley, Jr. was joined by other state officials, marine industry representatives and marina operators today as he launched the Virginia Clean Marina Program. The launch was held at the Richmond Centre in conjunction with the Virginia Boat Show.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science have worked with the Tidewater Marine Trades Association, the Virginia Association of Marine Industries and others in the private sector to develop this program providing technical assistance and a voluntary recognition program for marinas.
"I'm pleased to announce this partnership that promotes environmental stewardship through education and technical support," said Woodley. "This type of voluntary water quality stewardship effort incorporates Governor Gilmore's top environmental priorities and will help ensure Virginians will always be able to enjoy our waterways."
As part of the new program, funded by the Virginia Coastal Program at DEQ through a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a Marina Technical and Environmental Advisory Committee has been formed. The committee, made up of representatives from state agencies, the marine trade industry, and the recreational boating and environmental communities, will assist the program in providing information and technical assistance to marinas, local governments and recreational boaters in Virginia's coastal areas. It has recently completed a Virginia Clean Marina Guidebook that provides steps marina operators and recreational boaters can take to protect and improve Virginia's coastal waters. The committee will also assist in the program's marina designation process. Approximately 1,000 marinas in Virginia are eligible to vie for recognition as a "Virginia Clean Marina."
Those receiving the designation will be recognized with "Environmental
Enterprise" status in the Virginia Environmental Excellence Program, which
offers incentives to encourage the adoption of environmental management systems
and pollution prevention efforts. They also can use the Virginia Clean Marina
logo in their correspondence and advertisements. Studies of
similar programs in other states have shown that marinas recognized as environmentally
friendly have lower vacancy rates.
Marina operators seeking designation can complete a self-assessment checklist followed by a site visit by members of the advisory committee. Marinas not initially meeting the minimum criteria can sign a pledge to work toward clean marina designation within one year. The Marina Technical Assistance Program at VIMS will work with the marina operator to meet minimum requirements.
As part of the program's launching, several marinas today pledged to work for clean marina status. They are Ginney Point Marina in Cobbs Creek, Locklies Marina in Topping, Port Kinsale Marina of Kinsale, Tidewater Yacht Agency, Inc. of Portsmouth, Washington Sailing Marina in Alexandria, Wormley Creek Marina of Yorktown and York River Yacht Haven in Gloucester Point.
"With its focus on educating willing stewards of our resources, this new program fits well with our continuing Virginia Naturally campaign," said Woodley. "We're already extremely pleased with the response we're receiving from marina operators from both the public and private sector. Their input has also been crucial to the development of the Clean Marina program."
Virginia Naturally is a statewide initiative to promote lifelong learning about Virginia's environment and stewardship of the Commonwealth's natural and historic resources.
The Virginia Clean Marina Guidebook, plus a listing of all certified Virginia Clean Marinas and clean marina "pledges" will soon be available on a website being developed for the new program. Workshops will also be made available to marina operators from both the public and private sectors.
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- Translations -
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