The new Virginia (formerly Piedmont) Grassland Bird Initiative (VGBI) is showing promising signs of returning those birds to the Virginia landscape. With grant funding, the program pays farmers to adopt bird-friendly best management practices.
Land Conservation
PEC has helped landowners permanently protect over 430,000 acres of rural or natural land. Conservation Easements help ensure that the Virginia Piedmont is always characterized by its open spaces, healthy environment, and cultural resources.
Soil is Alive: How to Keep it Healthy
Healthy soil can make as big a difference for home gardeners as it can for large-scale farmers. We sat down with Melissa Allen, District Manager at the John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District to talk about the importance of and path to healthy soil.
PEC and the Aldie Assemblage – An Incredible Conservation Opportunity
For some time, The Aldie Assemblage property has been under threat of development or uses inconsistent with preserving the historic character and integrity of the surrounding village. In December 2021, recognizing the need for a conservation solution, PEC submitted an offer to Loudoun County to purchase the property.
Old Carolina Road Trail
The Old Carolina Road Trail at Roundabout Meadows is a half-mile long public trail in Aldie, Loudoun County, VA. In 2021, PEC opened the trail in partnership with NOVA Parks, Fauquier and Loudoun Garden Club and the Mount Zion Cemetery of Aldie.
PEC’s Land Trust Accreditation Renewed
We are happy to announce our accreditation as a land trust was renewed in August, 2022 — a mark of distinction in land conservation. Initially accredited in 2011, the renewal by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission signifies its continued confidence that the lands that PEC holds in easement will be protected forever.
Video: Cover Crops with John Marshall Soil and Water
We partnered with John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District to produce this video about their cover crop cost-share program.
Taking on State Law in Defense of Family Farms
It’s reasonable that Mike and Tina Roebuck want to hold on to the 112-acre Madison County farm that’s been in the Roebuck family for nearly 150 years. But a clause in a Virginia state law contained an unreasonable requirement that nearly cost the Roebucks the farm, quite literally. And when PEC heard about their predicament, our state policy team went to work.
Kestrel Banding with October Greenfield
PEC’s October Greenfield has been busy banding American Kestrels across our region to help track the movement and reproductive patterns of these beautiful falcons.
Albemarle Climate Action Videos
The following video interviews with local residents and experts will introduce you to the #ClimateConversation happening in Albemarle and arm you with the knowledge you need to take action in your community.
2022 Land Conservation Update
This annual publication of The Piedmont Environmental Council highlights land conservation opportunities. This edition includes 2021 Piedmont land conservation totals, a feature on the Holden easement in Loudoun County and general information for those who may be interested in putting their land in easement.