Merrimac Farm Conservation Landscape Project

Conservation landscaping means working with nature to enhance wildlife habitat, reduce pollution and conserve water. It's important because how we manage our landscapes – from backyards to neighborhoods and beyond – shapes the shapes the health and ecological value of our communities.

The plant list is online!
We are seeking plant donations for habitat areas A, B and C, until next spring, and updating the plant list to show which species we still need. Keep reading...

Overall plan details
Plant List
How to donate plants

Volunteer
Habitat losses are the primary threat to wildlife nationwide. Be a part of the effort to reverse this trend - you don't need to stand on the sidelines!

We're planting now. To date, we've planted about one-third of the area and removed invasive plants, including a 100 foot row of Autumn Olives, one of the most invasive nonnative plants at Merrimac Farm. We created a wetland feature, spread nearly 37 yards of compost and eliminated about a half acre of grass.

Saturday, November 5, beginning at 9:00 am
Planting day. Bring a smile and a shovel, no experience required. Lunch is provided, please RSVP to alliance@pwconserve.org, 703-499-4954.

The conservation landscape at Merrimac Farm uses native plants to create new habitats for wildlife. This project expands natural areas to reduce non-native grass, enhances vertical structure and increases the variety of food sources to welcome a wider variety of wildlife. Click here to read more about the plan.

Through this demonstration project, we’re showing how everyone can do their part to protect a little nature while Northern Virginia continues to grow.

The Merrimac Farm Conservation Landscape will transform the back yard of the Stone House Visitor Center into a diverse habitat for birds, butterflies, moths, turtles, amphibians and more. Here creatures great and small will find nesting sites, food, and places to rest and hide among a wealth of Virginia's native plants.

This four-season greenscape of native plants also creates a high quality area for families to watch wildlife in a public area that is easy to access… and demonstrate how any suburban or rural yard can be transformed from sterile to fruitful land, where adults and children alike can delight in nature.

To help further this goal, one of our members committed $5,000 IF we raised the same amount in designated contributions by September 1. We are delighted that others who enjoy exploring natural areas contributed and helped us exceed the $10,000 mark. Thank you... with your support, we can make good things happen!