The Hellmanns are glad to know that their corner of the world will remain intact — a place where generations to come can enjoy the native wildflowers alongside Bear Trail, the hardwoods they plan to plant after the next pine harvest, and the great place to live that they have always loved by the creek.
Conserving Land
Conservation easements help ensure that the Virginia Piedmont is always characterized by its open spaces, healthy environment, and cultural resources.
Rural Landowner Manual: A Resource Guide for the Northern Piedmont
The publication includes a list of experts, programs and opportunities to assist landowners, with practical advice on navigating the complexities of rural property stewardship.
Conservation Stories Across the Region: Beth Plentovich and Howie Kelly, Protection Through Perseverance
Beth Plentovich and Howie Kelly know the true importance of relentless incrementalism for achieving exponential results.
A Conservation Journey in Madison County
Carolyn Smith’s Madison County property has been on quite the journey since her parents first purchased the former cattle operation in 1965. Donating a 129-acre conservation easement in late 2023 came on the heels of decades of successful land stewardship by Carolyn, her parents, and a community of partners who have worked to restore and repair the land for wildlife habitat, pollinators and native plants.
6,315 acres conserved in nine-county region last year
The Piedmont Environmental Council reports that in 2023, 6,315 acres of land in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange and Rappahannock counties were permanently protected with 52 new conservation easements.
Three Advocacy Priorities That Need Your Attention
Since the General Assembly began its 2024 session, the newly-opened General Assembly office building and the Capitol have seen frenetic activity, day in and day out. Many bills that were introduced in January have now seen numerous amendments and text changes, with some being passed over and others being voted out of committee and onto the House or Senate floor for action.
Conservation Community Priorities for the 2024 General Assembly
With the many issues facing Virginia throughout the upcoming session, PEC staff will work with VCN and other allies to testify before the legislature, speak about budget priorities and amendments, and help lead with our strategic plan as our guide.
Power Surge: Data center boom leads to expansive transmission proposals
We must address the booming data center growth in our state that is requiring unprecedented expansions of our energy grid and hindering our ability to get off of fossil fuels.
2023 Highlights: A Holistic Approach to Conservation
PEC works to protect and restore the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont, while building stronger, more sustainable communities. The following highlights reflect our work in 2023.
Sources of Conservation Funding Workshop Resources
If you were unable to attend our recent Sources of Conservation Funding Workshop and Social at Powers Farm & Brewery in Midland, VA, PEC and our fantastic conservation partners are here to help you explore your conservation options.