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Merrimac Pond Iced Over

Community Report, Jan 19th, 2024

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We're Hiring! Operations Program Assistant


We're on the lookout for a passionate and dedicated part-time Operations Program Assistant. This role will be at the heart of our efforts to protect what makes this county so unique – our communities and the rich natural and cultural resources that define us.


Do you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced, and highly productive work environment? Do you love getting into the details to ensure we deliver nothing but the best to our community? Does supporting efforts to protect nature and empower residents to engage in decisions that impact their quality of life and community well-being sound exciting? If so, you could be exactly what we're looking for. >> Full Job description and how to apply

Stream Restoration and Invasive Management at Merrimac Farm WMA

In facing today's environmental challenges, our strategy is two-fold 1.) Protect what we have and 2.) Enhance what we've protected.


We protected Merrimac Farm WMA back in 2008 through a unique partnership with the Department of Wildlife Resources and Marine Corps Base Quantico. Now, to enhance what we've protected, we've secured funding for projects aimed at enhancing habitat quality through non-native invasive species management and stream restoration.


Nonnative invasive species like Autumn Olive and Japanese Honey Suckle are becoming more prevalent and negatively impact ecosystems by competing with native species for critical resources like light and nutrients. Through this management plan, we will be fostering diverse and healthy habitats for wildlife. We're working with Wetland Studies and Solutions Inc., to start this February.


The stream restoration project aims to restore the hydrology of an unnamed tributary of Cedar Run. The tributary extends from the Spring House as you enter the Bluebell Trail near the Stonehouse.

Stream restoration comes at a cost and is typically estimated at $1,000 per linear foot, underscoring why we prioritize conservation when we can. An ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure (maybe more like a ton!).


While conservation remains our most efficient tool, restoration is a critical part of our environmental toolbox. Here, we will be restoring 150 ft of stream and about 3 acres of wetland and adjacent natural area. While 2 trees will need to be removed, the end result will be the restoration of upland wetlands and protecting stream channel from becoming incised.

Spring House Merrimac Farm WMA

Data Center Reform Update

Last year we hosted a General Assembly Watch Party in partnership with the Virginia Conservation Network and National Park Conservation Association (NPCA). That day we reviewed several issues that were anticipated to have legislation during a session this year. Ranging from air pollution to tree conservation and of course the hot topic - regulations and studies on the Data Center Industry. You can track bills from various topics on VCNs Bill Tracker.


As part of the Virginia Data Center Reform Coalition, we are tracking several bills that would provide additional information into and critical oversite of the Data Center Industry ranging from increased energy efficiency to proper siting of data centers.>>see list here


Join us for Lobby Day on January 31!

Registration required


Conservation Lobby Day is an annual gathering of conservation advocates from around Virginia to lobby their state representatives on the issues that matter most to them. For Conservation Lobby Day, Virginia Conservation Network will set up meetings with your state senator and delegate, allowing you to share our data center reform message alongside other advocates from your area.


We will host a prep session on January 29th for those who have registered.


The Coalition to Protect Prince William and NPCA is organizing a bus that will depart from Haymarket. For details and to reserve your spot click here.


Additional resources:


The Cloud in Your Backyard: Data Centers, Land Use, and Power

Hidden Costs of the Cloud: Data Centers in Virginia

Press Conference at MNBP

PWDG Lawsuits


Two lawsuits have been filed to challenge the PWC Board of Supervisors approval of the PW Digital Gateway: One by the Coalition to Protect PWC, with American Battlefield Trust as a plaintiff; and another by Oak Valley HOA.


In our letter to the Board of County Supervisors, we mentioned several shortcomings of the rezoning application, many of which are being reflected here in these lawsuits.


Read more in the news

Dove's Landing: Protected in Perpetuity


2024 is starting with a win for conservation! On January 16th, the Board of County Supervisors unanimously authorized the conveyance of a Conservation Easement to Northern Virginia Conservation Trust Across Dove's Landing. In a time when we're seeing our natural areas dwindle, this parcel will be protected in perpetuity for the delight of all residents and future generations.


In 2007, our founding Executive Director, Kim Hosen, recognized the importance of Dove's Landing as a haven for residents to connect with nature. This has been a long journey in our conservation effort - good reminder that our work takes persistence... sometimes for over a decade.


Next up! Davis Ford Park...

Upcoming Events + Volunteer Opportunities


Last Sunday Bird Walk at Merrimac Farm WMA

Jan 28th, 8am | Meet at Cedar Run Parking Lot >>more info here


6th Annual PW Native Plant Symposium

Feb 10th | GMU Verizon Auditorium

Tickets $40 in-person, $25 virtual | Get tickets here!


    🌱Volunteers needed to help with tabling, set-up, registration, moderating talks, participant support etc. Email Ashley at [email protected] if you're interested in learning more and supporting this awesome event! (for other opporunities, fill out our volunteer form!)


Save the date for the Bluebell Festival

April 7th | Merrimac Farm WMA

Details to come!

Bluebells at Merrimac Farm WMA
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