Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
The Virginia Natural Heritage Program has contributed to a project led by NatureServe to develop a Map of Biodiversity Importance that offers an unprecedented, high-resolution view of where to protect the most imperiled plants and animals. We spoke with Anne Chazal, chief biologist at the Virginia Natural Heritage Program and a co-author of the study. READ MORE
The Northern Virginia Conservation Trust partnered with the Virginia DCRÂ and Stafford County for our Annual Great Blue Heron Nest Count on the Crow's Nest Natural Area Preserve Heron Rookery. Learn why it matters to do this count in this article. READ MORE
What plants are most likely to thrive in an area? Find out what naturally grows under similar conditions. READ MORE
With more people coming out to the parks and enjoying the amenities that each one offers, Virginia State Parks saw an increase in attendance with 7,926,344 visitors in 2021. READ MORE
Frank Stovall, former deputy executive director at the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in Williamsburg, recently joined the Department of Conservation and Recreation as its new deputy director of operations. READ MORE
Tom Smith, retiring from DCR after 31 years, reflects on leading Virginia's Natural Heritage Program. READ MORE
Gov. Ralph Northam dedicates Piney Grove Flatwoods, home of the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, as Virginia's 66th natural area preserve. READ MORE
Virginia scenic river designation could be a tool to protect quality fish habitat, according to VCU study. READ MORE.jpg)
Plant more plants, and make them native. Check out these tips and resources for free trees, plant guides and ways to make your yard shine next spring. READ MORE
Natural Heritage cave and karst scientists help discover and excavate a fully preserved large cat skeleton. READ MORE
