In November 2021, PEC learned that of the five formally-named gold mine sites located on the proposed Wilderness Crossing residential development, none of them have been closed and cleaned up – a process called “reclamation.”
Wilderness Crossing
Information about the proposed Wilderness Crossing residential development at the intersection of Rt. 3 and Rt. 20 in Orange County, next to Wilderness Battlefield.
Metal mining in Virginia risks public and environmental health
Gold mining historically occurred throughout Virginia in the gold-pyrite belt, including substantial operations across the PEC region in Orange, Culpeper and Fauquier counties. Now, half a century since metals were last mined commercially, the threat has resurfaced.
The Trouble with Wilderness Crossing
When it comes to policies and decisions that impact communities and quality of life for their residents, the most important voices are those of community residents themselves. And since 1972, The Piedmont Environmental Council has worked hard to be your eyes and ears on the ground and to encourage your voice in protecting the places and natural resources you care about.
The Wilderness Crossing Proposal Explained
The massive 2,602-acre rezoning would be the largest in county history, if approved.
Massive Rezoning Proposed in Orange County
Orange County is considering an enormous, 2,602-acre development and rezoning proposal, called Wilderness Crossing, which would be the largest land rezoning in the county’s history…