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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250122T074500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250122T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20241220T182721Z
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UID:10001194-1737531900-1737554400@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Virginia Conservation Network's Conservation Lobby Day
DESCRIPTION:Participants in the January 2024 Conservation Lobby Day. Photo by Hugh Kenny/PEC\n\n\n\nThe Virginia Conservation Network (VCN)’s annual Conservation Lobby Day is your chance to lobby with fellow advocates in your district for environmental action that matters most to you. \n\n\n\nJoin VCN as it kicks off this year’s annual Conservation Lobby Day at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on Wednesday\, Jan. 22nd. Attend lobby meetings with your legislators and fellow advocates throughout the morning. Then\, it will wrap up at St. Paul’s to recap a day well spent and plan next steps. \n\n\n\nRegister at https://app.glueup.com/event/conservation-lobby-day-127170/ \n\n\n\nFor any questions\, please reach out to jaime@vcnva.org \n\n\n\nThe Piedmont Environmental Council is proud to sponsor this event.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/virginia-conservation-networks-conservation-lobby-day/
LOCATION:St. Paul’s Episcopal Church\, 815 E Grace St\, Richmond\, Virginia\, 23219\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/1200px_richmond_capital_vcn_lobby_day-1-31-24_credit_hugh_kenny_pec-2-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250129T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250129T173000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250123T211950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T173903Z
UID:10001197-1738166400-1738171800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Piedmont Mobility Alliance Winter 2025 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The Piedmont Mobility Alliance is a coalition of organizations\, agencies\, businesses and groups who share a vision of a better-connected community for walking\, biking and other forms of active transportation in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.  We gather every two months to share updates and work collaboratively on projects that none can accomplish alone. \n\n\n\nIn-person attendance is encouraged\, but there will also be a remote option. Join at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88630281370 \n\n\n\nDraft AgendaIntroductions2025 Meetings slateActive Mobility Summit (March 6-7) Updates and Work SessionCharlottesville Parks & Rec Master PlanOrganization Updates and 2025 Plans \n\n\n\nPlease feel free to submit agenda items.(pkrebs@pecva.org) \n\n\n\nThe Piedmont Mobility Alliance is a coalition of organizations\, agencies\, businesses and individuals who share a vision of a better-connected community for walking\, biking and other forms of active transportation in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.  \n\n\n\n\nhttps://www.vdot.virginia.gov/projects/culpeper-district/stars-study-ridge-street-and-westmain-street-intersection-city-of-charlottesville
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/piedmont-mobility-alliance-winter-2025-meeting/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/active_mobility_summit_3-20-24_credit_hugh_kenny_pec-5-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T190000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250123T211905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T211915Z
UID:10001198-1738598400-1738609200@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Charlottesville Office Open House
DESCRIPTION:Brighten up a winter evening with drinks\, light bites\, and community conversations about PEC’s work at our Charlottesville Office’s Open House. Our location in the historic King Building\, off of the Downtown Mall\, serves as the home base for PEC’s work on the southern half of our nine-county region that extends from Albemarle to Loudoun County. \n\n\n\nRSVP to let us know you’re coming or swing by between 4-7 p.m. Mon.\, Feb. 3! 
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/charlottesville-office-open-house/
LOCATION:Piedmont Environmental Council\, 410 East Water Street\, Charlottesville\, Virginia\, 22902
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250213T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250213T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250206T162225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T162239Z
UID:10001199-1739471400-1739476800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:American Kestrels: Nest Box Monitoring and Banding
DESCRIPTION:The Potomac Valley Audubon Society welcomes October Greenfield\, Wildlife Habitat Program Manager for The Piedmont Environmental Council and Co-coordinator of the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative! \n\n\n\nThis program is free and open to the public\, in person and virtually.  \n\n\n\nSCHEDULE \n\n\n\n\n6:30 PM: Social time with light refreshments. In order to reduce waste\, we are asking that people bring their own mugs. \n\n\n\n7:00 PM: Presentation begins!\n\n\n\n8:00 PM: Approximate end of the program – though it may last longer depending on questions and discussion!\n\n\n\n\nWe will also be offering this program virtually! Here is the Zoom link so you can join in from home.  If you are not able to attend live\, in-person or virtually\, you can view a recording of the Monthly Program presentation later! We typically post the recording within several days. \n\n\n\nPresentation Description – \n\n\n\nJoin us learn about conservation efforts to provide nesting habitat for American Kestrels across the Virginia Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley. October Greenfield\, Wildlife Habitat Program Manager for The Piedmont Environmental Council and Co-coordinator of the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative\, will present on American Kestrel ecology and conservation challenges\, including how installing nest boxes can benefit American Kestrels and how bird banding helps us learn more about their movements and survival. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Presenter: October Greenfield is the Wildlife Habitat Program Manager for The Piedmont Environmental Council and Co-coordinator of the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative. Her work includes a diverse portfolio of wildlife habitat restoration projects\, leading community-based conservation efforts\, and promoting landowner engagement around habitat management. She has worked with raptors for a decade and is a licensed raptor bander. In 2018\, October served as one of PVAS’s AmeriCorps Environmental Educators!
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/american-kestrels-nest-box-monitoring-and-banding/
LOCATION:Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and Education\, 213 N King St\, Shepherdstown\, West Virginia\, 25443
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/kestrel_banding_web_size_October_Greenfield_Fauquier_County_Drone_credit_hugh_kenny-16-of-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250222T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250222T163000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250206T170359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T170639Z
UID:10001200-1740213000-1740241800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Woods & Wildlife Conference: Virginia Forest Landowner Education Program
DESCRIPTION:Join PEC and other partners at the 21st Annual Landowner Woods & Wildlife Conference\, Saturday\, Feb. 22. The full day conference will provide information\, tools\, and personal contacts to help private woodland owners keep their woods\, and the wildlife that live in them\, healthy and productive.   \n\n\n\nA variety of topics are offered to appeal to owners of both small and large tracts\, and both new and experienced owners. \n\n\n\nPEC’s Albemarle and Greene County Conservation Program Manager\, Kim Biasiolli\, will be presenting in the afternoon on conservation tools available to landowners. See the agenda and register to attend.  \n\n\n\nThis event is open to all. $55/person or $100/couple.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/woods-wildlife-conference-virginia-forest-landowner-education-program/
LOCATION:Daniel Technology Center – Germanna Community College (Culpeper Campus)\, 18121 Technology Drive\, Culpeper\, Virginia\, 22701
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/1100px-hackley_store_tree_planting_earth_day_amissville_rappahannock_4-22-2023_credit_hugh_kenny_PEC-02646.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250210T171221Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T171429Z
UID:10001201-1740571200-1740582000@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Greene County Conservation Speed Dating Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Are you interested in: 1) learning about different conservation practices that can benefit your landscape and production goals2) Learning about financial assistance available to help cover the cost of those practices?3)Having an opportunity to meet many of the local organizations and technical service providers that can assist you? \n\n\n\nIf so\, we invite you to join PEC for a hands-on workshop that will give you one-on-one time with local technical service providers and conservation practitioners to discuss your interests\, options\, and next steps specific to your property. All participants will receive a large scale printed map of their property and have the opportunity to interact with service providers from PEC\, Rappahannock River Round Table\, Friends of the Rappahannock\, Blue Ridge PRISM\, American Farmland Trust\, NRCS\, Culpeper SWCD\, and the Department of Forestry. \n\n\n\nThis event is only open to Greene County landowners and producers\, stay tuned for similar events in the future in your area at pecva.org/events. There is a limit to the number of participants (10-12 landowners) due to the format of the event so those that would like to participate should email Lauria McShane at lmcshane@pecva.org as soon as possible.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/greene-county-conservation-speed-dating-workshop/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Speed-Dating-Workshop_Unison-Apr24_credit_Justin_Proctor-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T235959
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250116T142542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T143106Z
UID:10001196-1741132800-1741219199@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Chesapeake Bay Day on Capitol Hill
DESCRIPTION:Choose Clean Water Coalition’s Lobby Day in 2023. Photo by Hugh Kenny/PEC.\n\n\n\nYou are invited to join the Choose Clean Water Coalition for our 14th Annual Chesapeake Bay Day on Capitol Hill on Wednesday\, March 5.  The 2025 Chesapeake Bay Day will feature meetings with members of Congress and/or their staff and a lunch briefing from 12:00-1:30PM when members of Congress will join us and speak to our entire group.  \n\n\n\nEvery March\, the Choose Clean Water Coalition gathers individuals from its member organizations throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed to advocate for clean water policies and funding in Washington\, DC. Meeting with Members of Congress and their staff\, Coalition members provide real-world examples of the impact clean water programs and policies are having in their community and the need for continued support. \n\n\n\nRegistration for Bay Day will close on Friday\, February 7.  Please submit your registration form before that time.  \n\n\n\nClick here to LEARN MORE \n\n\n\nClick here to REGISTER \n\n\n\nIf you have any questions regarding our 2025 Chesapeake Bay Day on Capitol Hill\, please contact Peter Marx\, peter@choosecleanwater.org. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nPEC is a member of the Choose Clean Water Coalition.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/chesapeake-bay-day-on-capitol-hill/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Richmond_capitol_header.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20241206T130000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241119T151015Z
UID:10001190-1741168800-1741172400@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Winter Lecture: Bringing Back Virginia's Grassland Birds
DESCRIPTION:“Bringing Back Virginia’s Grassland Birds” is an in-person lecture presented by October Greenfield\, co-coordinator of Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative and wildlife habitat restoration coordinator at Piedmont Environmental Council. Over 50 species of birds rely on grassland habitats here in Virginia. But the state of our grasslands is changing with increased pressure from development and changing agricultural practices. As a result\, many grassland bird species are in severe decline. The good news is that private landowners and farmers can—and are—helping bring these birds back! Join October and Leopold’s Preserve to learn more about the decline of grassland birds and the work of the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative. \n\n\n\nRSVP here for this free\, in-person lecture. Light refreshments will be provided. \n\n\n\nThis lecture is part of a winter series hosted by Leopold’s Preserve. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative—a partnership between Smithsonian’s Virginia Working Landscapes\,   The Piedmont Environmental Council\, American Farmland Trust\, and Quail Forever—is innovating new ways to reverse the declines of grassland birds on working lands in the Virginia Piedmont\, Blue Ridge\, and Shenandoah Valley. Together\, VGBI partners work with landowners and producers in 16 counties to restore grassland habitat for the benefit of birds and farms. Learn more at vagrasslandbirds.org
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/winter-lecture-bringing-back-virginias-grassland-birds/
LOCATION:Bull Run Mountain Conservancy’s Mountain House Headquarters\, 17405 Beverley Mill Dr\, Broad Run\, Virginia\, 20137
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/kestrel_banding_web_size_October_Greenfield_Fauquier_County_Drone_credit_hugh_kenny-18-of-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250306T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250109T172829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250109T204130Z
UID:10001195-1741282200-1741348800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:2025 Charlottesville / Albemarle Active Mobility Summit
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’re a cyclist\, walker\, runner\, or simply interested in promoting active lifestyles and access to the outdoors\, this summit is for you! Get ready to be inspired and empowered to create positive change in the community. \n\n\n\nThe fifth annual Charlottesville / Albemarle Active Mobility Summit invites you to join other residents and partner organizations at the historic Wool Factory for an evening of presentations\, followed by morning work sessions. The event is hands-on and collaborative\, centered on learning\, active participation\, and fellowship—and it’s free! \n\n\n\n\nRegister to Attend\n\n\n\n\nThis year’s Summit will be the unofficial launch of the Three Notch’d Trail study – an 18-month process to determine the best route for a paved\, shared-use path connecting Charlottesville to the Blue Ridge Tunnel and beyond. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe evening presentation will provide background on the Three Notch Trail\, why it is important and what to expect. Cat Anthony\, executive director of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation\, will tell the story of that 50-mile greenway\, which connects Richmond to Williamsburg\, and how it is transforming the communities it connects. Attendees will be encouraged to share their own visions as well. \n\n\n\nThe next morning\, attendees will reconvene to collaborate on projects that no individual or organization can tackle alone. The Three Notch’d Trail is just one example. Other work groups might focus on quick-build infrastructure\, organizing group rides or exploring connectivity along the Rivanna River and with the Capital Trail. A panel of leaders from other successful and emerging trail projects across Virginia will share their success stories and lessons learned. \n\n\n\nYou don’t need to attend both sessions to benefit but it is encouraged. Both sessions will include snacks and drinks (cash bar in the evening and coffee in the morning)\, plus opportunities for networking and fellowship. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Mobility Summit is free but registration is required. The two parts will be Thursday\, March 6\, 5:30 – 8 p.m. and Friday\, March 7\, 9 – 12 p.m. at The Wool Factory (1837 Broadway St\, Charlottesville\, Va).  \n\n\n\nThe Piedmont Mobility Alliance is a coalition of more than 40 organizations\, businesses\, agencies that share a vision of a better-connected community for walking\, biking and other forms of active transportation in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/2025-charlottesville-albemarle-active-mobility-summit/
LOCATION:The Wool Factory\, 1837 Broadway Street\, Charlottesville\, Virginia\, 22902
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/active_mobility_summit_3-20-24_credit_hugh_kenny_pec-94-4.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250313T173926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T173936Z
UID:10001208-1741942800-1741957200@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District New Landowner Workshop
DESCRIPTION:PEC will be on hand to talk about the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/culpeper-soil-and-water-conservation-district-new-landowner-workshop/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/land-conservation-workshop-july-20-2023-credit-marco-sanchez-1200x.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250317T063000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250317T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250313T194704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T194755Z
UID:10001212-1742193000-1742241600@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:"Virginia as a Hotspot for Data Centers": Sierra Club/PEC Presentation
DESCRIPTION:Explosive growth of data centers in Virginia requires massive amounts of energy and energy infrastructure. The burden of air\, water\, grid\, cost of infrastructure and quality of life impacts are falling on local community to meet this demand. PEC has advocated for enhanced transparency\, state oversight\, ratepayer protection and incentivizing sustainability going forward.  \n\n\n\nJoin us March 17 for a presentation on Data Centers with speakers – • Ann Bennet\, Data Center Committee Chair\, Virginia Chapter\, Sierra Club • Robert McGuiness\, PLA\, FASLA\, Senior Land Use Representative\, Piedmont Environmental Council • Kirk Bowers\, PE\, Conservation Chair\, Piedmont Group\, Sierra Club
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/virginia-as-a-hotspot-for-data-centers-sierra-club-pec-presentation/
LOCATION:Gordon Avenue Library\, 1500 Gordon Avenue\, Charlottesville\, Virginia\, 22903
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250331T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250331T173000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250313T190445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T192812Z
UID:10001211-1743436800-1743442200@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Piedmont Mobility Alliance: March Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The Piedmont Mobility Alliance (pecva.org/mobilityalliance) is a coalition of organizations\, agencies\, businesses and groups who share a vision of a better-connected community for walking\, biking and other forms of active transportation in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. We gather every two months to share updates and work collaboratively on projects that none can accomplish alone. \n\n\n\nIn-person attendance is encouraged\, but there will also be a remote option. – Charlottesville Parks & Recreation – 501 E Main St\, Charlottesville (on the Downtown Mall)– Join virtually at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84147055003.  \n\n\n\nDraft AgendaIntroductions2025 Mobility Summit DebriefBike Month discussion and work sessionOrganization Updates \n\n\n\nSnacks will be provided; possible (offsite) social gathering afterward. \n\n\n\nPlease feel free to submit agenda items to pkrebs@pecva.org.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/piedmont-mobility-alliance-march-meeting/
LOCATION:Charlottesville Parks & Recreation\, 501 E Main Street\, Charlottesville\, Virginia\, 22902
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Piedmont-Mobility-Alliance-Monthly-Meeting-Square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250405T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250313T163518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250319T210501Z
UID:10001207-1743858000-1743872400@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Native Tree Giveaway at Orvis Leesburg
DESCRIPTION:Pick up a tree on your next shopping trip to the Orvis store in Leesburg. We’ll be giving away free native trees\, courtesy of Piedmont Environmental Council and Friends of the Rappahannock April 5 @ 1-5 p.m. Species include white oak\, flowering dogwood\, serviceberry\, and witch hazel. \n\n\n\nQuestions? Contact Linnea Sherman at lsherman@pecva.org.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/native-tree-giveaway-at-orvis-leesburg/
LOCATION:Orvis Store Leesburg\, 1614 Village Market Blvd SE #110\, Leesburg\, Virginia\, 20175
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Tree-Giveaway-Square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250410T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250410T124500
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250313T183045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T183055Z
UID:10001209-1744284600-1744289100@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Best Practices for Solar Development
DESCRIPTION:The Piedmont Environmental Council’s Senior Energy and Climate Advisor\, Ashish Kapoor\, will join a panel on Best Practices for Solar Development at the Environment Virginia Symposium. There will be a discussion April 10 at 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. title “Sun and Soil: The Promise of Agrivoltaics in Virginia” about the potential for dual use solar in the Commonwealth followed by an overview of the “Solar + Storage + Crops” project being developed by the Piedmont Environmental Council at our Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows. \n\n\n\nLearn more about the workshops at the symposium.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/best-practices-for-solar-development/
LOCATION:Virginia Military Institute\, 500 Anderson Drive\, Lexington\, Va\, 24450
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-03-13-at-1.58.12 PM.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250413T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250312T132921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T005746Z
UID:10001205-1744542000-1744549200@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:22nd Annual Bluebell Walk: In Tribute to Mike Stevens
DESCRIPTION:Join The Piedmont Environmental Council’s Julian W. Scheer Fauquier Land Conservation Fund for the 22nd Annual Bluebell Walk in Catlett\, Virginia. This year’s event will be in tribute to Mike Stevens. \n\n\n\nEach year in April\, a spectacular display of thousands of bluebells appear on the banks of Cedar Run at Bonny Brook Farm. To celebrate this rite of spring\, Piedmont Environmental Council staff\, together with representatives from several partner organizations will be participating to talk about the restoration work that has taken place at Bonny Brook Farm to enhance wildlife habitat. \n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public but space is limited. Registration is required on Eventbrite. \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\nOutdoor clothing and boots are recommended. Please\, no pets. Note: the round trip walk to Cedar Run will be approximately one mile in length through fields. The event will take place rain or shine! \n\n\n\nDonations are welcome for the Julian W. Scheer Fauquier Land Conservation Fund for continued land and water conservation efforts in Fauquier County. \n\n\n\nThe event is hosted by Margrete Stevens. \n\n\n\nMike Stevens\n\n\n\nMike Stevens worked as a development economist for close to 50 years. Born in England\, Mike lived in several parts of Africa and the Far East before joining the World Bank in Washington\, D.C. in 1985. \n\n\n\nMike and his wife\, Margrete\, bought Bonny Brook Farm in 1992. In addition to conserving the land in a permanent conservation easement\, land management has included the planing of 155 native trees along Cedar Run; the extraction of miles of old barbed wire nestled in the cedar tree lines; the establishment of a wildflower meadow; and the beginning of a battle against invasive plants\, including callery pears; multiflora rose\, and honeysuckle. \n\n\n\nThese efforts have been possible thanks to help from PEC; the Clifton Institute; and PRISM. The restoration of Bonny Brook became Mike’s passion and his work lives on in our continued enjoyment of the land. Mike died in February\, of ALS\, at home on his farm. \n\n\n\nPEC’s Julian W. Scheer Fauquier Land Conservation Fund\n\n\n\nPEC’s Julian W. Scheer Fauquier Land Conservation Fund has been successful in assisting with the protection of more than 12\,000 acres of privately-owned land in the Cedar Run watershed. It was established in 2003. The Fund is named in honor of Julian Scheer of Elmwood who\, with his wife Sue\, led many important conservation efforts in Fauquier County for four decades. Their work is today carried forward by Rick and Hilary Gerhardt\, Julian and Sue’s son-in-law and daughter. \n\n\n\nThe Fauquier Fund provides valuable outreach\, education\, and financial resources for landowners to explore land conservation options as well as ways to improve sound environmental stewardship of land and waterways. Such efforts may take the form of estate planning and the donation of conservation easements; land management supported by the Fund may include the planting of native trees and the protection of streams and ponds. \n\n\n\nIn recognizing that working farms form an important and traditional part of the way of life in Fauquier county\, the Fund collaborates with farmers and Fauquier County staff under the recently enhanced Purchase of Development Rights program to ensure that farms may be protected from future development through conservation easements. The Fund’s work in this area is especially geared towards assisting with initial expenses in the form of valuation and attorney’s fees. \n\n\n\nBonny Brook Farm’s almost 200 acres were placed in a Virginia Outdoors Foundation conservation easement in 2010. Together with neighboring Elmwood\, some 650 acres are protected. Several other nearby large working farms have been placed in Fauquier County conservation easements totaling more than 2\,500 acres\, and are now permanently protected for productive farming. Hay is cut on both Bonny Brook and Elmwood by neighboring farmers in support of their milking operations. \n\n\n\nUnder PEC auspices\, and with PEC staff assistance\, the Fauquier Fund hosts a number of community activities throughout the year\, including not only the Bluebell Walk but also conservation workshops and fundraising events. \n\n\n\nDonations make the Fund’s conservation work possible. If you are interested in preserving the landscape that we enjoy today\, please consider a contribution to the Fund when you register for this event. \n\n\n\nQuestions? Contact Montana Lanier Ruffner at mlanier@pecva.org or 703-459-3358.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/22nd-annual-bluebell-walk-in-tribute-to-mike-stevens/
LOCATION:Bonny Brook Farm\, 8446 Old Dumfries Road\, Catlett\, Virginia\, 20119\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Bluebells_5_CedarRun_Fauquier_photo-credit-Mike-Stevens_permission-received-for-use.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250423T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250407T195614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T195624Z
UID:10001214-1745413200-1745424000@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Northern Albemarle Conservation Speed Dating Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join this laid-back workshop where landowners and producers can comfortably talk one-on-one with each other.  The workshop introduces landowners and producers and local technical service providers (TSPs) to one another. While exploring a large-scale map of their property\, landowners will learn what the full suite of technical and financial resources\, knowledge\, and programs their local technical service providers can do.  Landowners and producers will leave the workshop with the large-scale map of their property and local connections to help guide their next steps in conserving their land. \n\n\n\nMontfair Resort Farm Lodge looks over the pond and miles of trails that participants can enjoy before or after the event\, as the property is open to the public. Light refreshments will be made available.  \n\n\n\nPlease RSVP to Lauria McShane at lmcshane@pecva.org with your name and property address as soon as possible as space is limited.  
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/northern-albemarle-conservation-speed-dating-workshop/
LOCATION:Montfair Resort Farm\, 2500 Bezaleel Drive\, Crozet\, Virginia\, 23932
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Speed-Dating-Workshop-Middleburg-Feb24-credit-Brooke-McDonough_1200x.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250503T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250503T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250218T225157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250319T205602Z
UID:10001204-1746268200-1746273600@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Native Tree Giveaway at Gilberts Corner Farmers Market
DESCRIPTION:Come to the Gilberts Corner Farmers Market Saturday\, May 3 and take home a free native tree\, courtesy of the Piedmont Environmental Council and Friends of the Rappahannock! Get there early to claim your tree while supplies last! \n\n\n\nQuestions? Contact Linnea Sherman at lsherman@pecva.org.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/native-tree-giveaway-at-gilberts-corner-market/
LOCATION:Gilberts Corner Farmers Market\, 39950 Little River Turnpike\, Aldie\, Virginia\, 20105
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Tree-Giveaway-Square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250504T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250504T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250422T201251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T190356Z
UID:10001217-1746363600-1746374400@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Cville Bike Month: Family Bike Day
DESCRIPTION:Come on out and ride! Riders of all ages can enjoy a Star Wars themed helmet and bike decoration station\, traffic garden\, pump track\, food trucks\, DJ and much more\, including a guided mountain bike ride the Triangle Trails. Professional bike mechanics from Blue Ridge Cyclery will be on hand to perform safety checks for all types and sizes of bicycles. Bring a helmet if you have one or come get a new one\, free helmets will be available thanks to Sentara. Everyone is welcome!  \n\n\n\nCharlottesville Bike Month is a joint effort of local government staff\, nonprofits\, and volunteer organizations.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/cville-bike-month-family-bike-day/
LOCATION:McIntire Skate Park\, 151 McIntire Park Drive\, Charlottesville\, Virginia\, 22902
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/1745520548085-1e8114f8-6863-4cd9-ba63-156817da7b66_1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250509T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250509T223000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250211T195127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T195136Z
UID:10001203-1746779400-1746829800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Birding Walk at Roundabout Meadows
DESCRIPTION:Join PEC Wildlife Habitat Restoration Coordinator\, October Greenfield\, for a birding walk through the Roundabout Meadows pastures and meadows. Possible sightings may include eastern meadowlarks\, field sparrows\, indigo buntings\, plus a variety of other grassland and shrubland species.  \n\n\n\nThe walk will cover approximately 1.3 miles through rolling pastures and across a small creek\, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for longer grass and uneven terrain. Participants should bring their own binoculars. \n\n\n\nThis event is free\, but registration is required.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/birding-walk-at-roundabout-meadows-3/
LOCATION:Mt. Zion Historic Park\, 40309 Little River Turnpike\, Aldie\, Virginia\, 20105
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/3mb_Bird_Walk_PEC_Fellows_2022_Volgenau_Property_Fauquier_credit_hugh_kenny_PEC-36-of-58-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250510T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250510T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250428T161632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T161644Z
UID:10001218-1746878400-1746885600@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Cville Bike Month: Free Bridge Lane Bikefest + Riverfest
DESCRIPTION:Come explore the county’s newest car-free open space: Free Bridge Lane! It’s the perfect place for people of all ages to walk\, bike or roll – especially for learners. Albemarle County will be offering e-bike demonstrations\, kids’ bike safety lessons\, and more on May 10! Don’t forget to bring your kids’ bikes if they’d like to test their skills. \n\n\n\nAfterward we’ll hop the short distance over to the Rivanna River Company for Riverfest where there will be music\, games\, food\, drink and more fun. The combination will make an amazing day! \n\n\n\nCharlottesville Bike Month is a joint effort of local government staff\, nonprofits\, and volunteer organizations. \n\n\n\nDetails: Drop by Free Bridge Lane in Dardon Towe Park from 12-2 p.m. before hitting Riverfest at the Rivanna River Company (1520 E High Street) for Riverfest from 2-9 p.m.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/cville-bike-month-free-bridge-lane-bikefest-riverfest/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/free_bridge_lane_spring_trail_credit_peter_krebs_3-2-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T093000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250421T175029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T175040Z
UID:10001216-1747380600-1747387800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Cville Bike Month: Bike2Work (or Anywhere!) Swag Appreciation Station
DESCRIPTION:Credit Hugh Kenny/PEC\n\n\n\nAre you interested in biking to work – or maybe curious about it? Let us encourage you during your morning commute – or ride – with free swag\, free snacks and even a quick tune up. We’ll be set set in front of Shenanigan’s Toys on West Main Street in Charlottesville from 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. Friday\, May 16.   \n\n\n\nCookies will be provided by Albemarle Baking Company; Coffee by Mudhouse; Tune Ups by Blue Wheel \n\n\n\nCycling to work (or school or wherever you go!) has many benefits. It costs less and is more fun than driving; it provides a dose of exercise while most other people are sitting; it reduces greenhouse gas emissions–and it impresses colleagues! \n\n\n\nFor more information\, please contact Peter Krebs (pkrebs@pecva.org) \n\n\n\nCharlottesville Bike Month is a joint effort of local government staff\, nonprofits\, and volunteer organizations.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/cville-bike-month-bike2work-or-anywhere-swag-appreciation-station/
LOCATION:601 West Main Street\, Charlottesville
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/1200px_bike_to_work_day_cvhille_5-17-23_credit_hugh_kenny-07050-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250411T154352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250411T154813Z
UID:10001215-1747386000-1747393200@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Spring Nature Walk at the Piedmont Memorial Overlook
DESCRIPTION:Photo by Hugh Kenny/PEC.\n\n\n\nJoin us for a spring nature walk at PEC’s Piedmont Memorial Overlook to learn about native plant identification\, pollinators\, songbirds and meadow management! PEC’s Wildlife Habitat Restoration Coordinator\, October Greenfield and Plantings for the Piedmont Program Coordinator Linnea Sherman will lead the walk. \n\n\n\nThis event is free but registration is required. \n\n\n\n\nRegister →\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Overlook\n\n\n\nThe Piedmont Memorial Overlook sits adjacent to Sky Meadows State Park within a large block of privately and publicly protected land along the Blue Ridge Mountains that is a patchwork of forest\, livestock pasture\, and mountainous fields. The land was actively farmed from the late 18th century until the recent past\, and was heavily grazed by cattle. \n\n\n\nIn 2012\, PEC began an extensive restoration effort on the 50-acre parcel with funding from the USDA\, first eliminating fescue and other non-native plants from the pasture\, and then seeding native grasses and wildflowers. The property now serves as an active demonstration site for landowners who are interested in viewing habitat restoration practices. \n\n\n\nThe 15+ acre native meadow is home to songbirds\, butterflies\, raptors\, bees and black bears. It was planted with 16 native wildflower species that provide forage for pollinators and habitat for grassland and shrubland birds. PEC manages the meadow using prescribed fire\, late winter mowing and invasive species monitoring.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/spring-nature-walk-at-the-piedmont-memorial-overlook/
LOCATION:Piedmont Memorial Overlook\, Paris\, Virginia\, 20130
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/pmo_meadow_walk_7-10-24_credit_hugh_kenny_pec-21-1200x.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250520T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250520T190000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250512T204913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T204922Z
UID:10001219-1747764000-1747767600@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Solarize Virginia Webinar Series
DESCRIPTION:Solarize Virginia 2025 runs from April 15 through July 15! This free informative webinar will discuss the benefits of solar\, how our solar campaign works\, and how we as a community can come together for a brighter future. \n\n\n\nSolarize Virginia is a collaboration between the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP)\, nonprofit organizations like PEC\, and municipalities throughout Virginia. \n\n\n\nRegister: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/3zrEoi4VRJWjJm_Hd0Zkrg
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/solarize-virginia-webinar-series-4/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/solarize-webinar-series-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250531T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250531T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250211T194932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T194948Z
UID:10001202-1748680200-1748687400@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Wildflower Walk at Roundabout Meadows
DESCRIPTION:Join Dr. Andrea Weeks\, Associate Professor and Director of the Ted R Bradley Herbarium at George Mason University\, and Gilberts Corner Farm and Land Manager\, Dana Melby\, for a morning walk along the Old Carolina Road Trail and through the meadow while learning about wildflowers and PEC’s approach to restoring the meadow.  \n\n\n\nAll skill levels are welcome. The walk will be approximately one mile long and will traverse a mowed walking path\, with occasional uneven ground along the Old Carolina Road Trail. \n\n\n\nThis event is free\, but registration is required.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/wildflower-walk-at-roundabout-meadows-2/
LOCATION:Mt. Zion Historic Park\, 40309 Little River Turnpike\, Aldie\, Virginia\, 20105
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/small_wildflower_overlook_video_credit_hugh_kenny.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250602T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250602T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250512T205313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T205324Z
UID:10001220-1748876400-1748880000@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Solarize Virginia Webinar Series
DESCRIPTION:Solarize Virginia 2025 runs from April 15 through July 15! This free informative webinar will discuss the benefits of solar\, how our solar campaign works\, and how we as a community can come together for a brighter future. \n\n\n\nSolarize Virginia is a collaboration between the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP)\, nonprofit organizations like PEC\, and municipalities throughout Virginia. \n\n\n\nRegister: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/ECC_6M4fSOKdEU8hD59VIw
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/solarize-virginia-webinar-series-5/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/solarize-webinar-series-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250606T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250606T094500
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250520T205732Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T205743Z
UID:10001223-1749198600-1749203100@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Piedmont Mobility Alliance: June 2025 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The Piedmont Mobility Alliance is a coalition of organizations\, agencies\, businesses and groups who share a vision of a better-connected community for walking\, biking and other forms of active transportation in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. We gather every two months to share updates and work collaboratively on projects that none can accomplish alone. \n\n\n\nThis meeting will be held at Sentara’s Community Health and Outreach Center at the corner of Locust Avenue and High Street in Charlottesville (920 E High St Suite 102). In-person attendance is encouraged\, but there will also be a remote option. Join at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87173291929.  \n\n\n\nSnacks will be provided. Agenda (to come) at tinyurl.com/PMAJun25. \n\n\n\nPlease feel free to submit agenda items to pkrebs@pecva.org. \n\n\n\nPrevious Meeting Notes: tinyurl.com/PMAMar25
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/piedmont-mobility-alliance-june-2025-meeting/
LOCATION:Sentara’s Community Health and Outreach Center\, 920 E High Street\, Suite 102\, Charlottesville\, Virginia\, 22902
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Piedmont-Mobility-Alliance-Monthly-Meeting-Square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250607T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250607T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250313T161132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T161143Z
UID:10001206-1749290400-1749312000@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Virginia Black Bear Festival
DESCRIPTION:The Virginia Black Bear Festival is a free community event celebrating nature and mountain outdoors in Greene County\, Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail. \n\n\n\n​The one-day festival is held on the first Saturday of June\, National Black Bear Day\, in downtown Stanardsville\, Va. Interact with experts and discover regional outdoor opportunities that include hiking\, cycling\, fly fishing\, archery\, and camping.  Engage with rangers from Shenandoah National Park\, learn nature survival skills\, and meet Smokey Bear! Participate in educational and interactive demonstrations led by nature organizations.  Enjoy live music\, food trucks\, activities for all ages\, shop local vendors showcasing bear and nature themed items. \n\n\n\nLearn more about this event for the whole family at https://www.vablackbearfestival.com/.  \n\n\n\n*Public parking at Greene County School Complex in Stanardsville.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/virginia-black-bear-festival-2/
LOCATION:Main Street Standardsville\, 40 Celt Road\, Standardsville\, Virginia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.pecva.org/wp-content/uploads/Black-Bear-Festival-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250608T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250608T143000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250318T161247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T144524Z
UID:10001213-1749375000-1749393000@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Inspiring Conservation: PEC’s Annual Gathering at Eldon Farms
DESCRIPTION:Featuring Keynote Speaker Thomas Woltz \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin The Piedmont Environmental Council for our 2025 Annual Gathering at historic Eldon Farms in Rappahannock County. This remarkable 7\,100-acre property is an example of how the intersection of conservation and thoughtful land stewardship can support agriculture and biodiversity in ways that celebrate the cultural and historical landscapes. \n\n\n\nPurchased by the Akre family in 2021 as a conservation investment\, Eldon Farms has been thoughtfully developed over the last five years with a vision to embody the values that define our region’s character — working landscapes that maintain ecological balance while supporting sustainable agriculture and being accessible to all. With its sweeping views of Old Rag Mountain and proximity to Shenandoah National Park\, the property showcases the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Virginia Piedmont. \n\n\n\nOur keynote speaker\, renowned landscape architect Thomas Woltz\, brings a wealth of expertise in ecological conservation and agricultural and cultural landscapes. As owner of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects\, Woltz has spent two decades weaving environmental narratives into the places people live\, work and play\, inspiring vital connections between communities and the natural world. \n\n\n\nThe day will begin with a welcome from PEC President Chris Miller\, followed by Woltz’s keynote address on the Eldon project as an example of sustainable landscape design that balances ecological health and productive agriculture. After a community lunch\, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in one of four workshop sessions exploring different aspects of conservation work in our region. \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKeynote Speaker: Thomas Woltz\n\n\n\nThomas Woltz is the owner of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects. Over the past two decades\, Woltz and his team have developed a practice that integrates the beauty and function of designed landscapes with an understanding of complex biological systems and restoration ecology. \n\n\n\nWoltz holds master’s degrees in both architecture and landscape architecture from the University of Virginia. Named one of the most creative people in business by Fast Company\, Woltz is a recipient of the Trust for Public Land’s Land for People Award. His firm’s Conservation Agriculture Studio has transformed thousands of acres of farmland\, enhancing both productivity and biodiversity. Woltz’s current projects span the United States\, Canada and New Zealand\, and include public parks\, memorials and agricultural landscapes. \n\n\n\nWorkshops\n\n\n\nA choice of four workshops\, beginning after lunch and running simultaneously\, so please choose the one you’d like to attend when you register to help us plan accordingly. There is some flexibility to change your mind on the day of the event. \n\n\n\n1. A Walking Tour of Conservation at Eldon Farms\n\n\n\nJoin Eldon Farms’ geneticist and agribusiness Manager John Genho and PEC’s conservation team to learn about best practices being implemented at Eldon Farms to conserve the Upper Rappahannock watershed. The walk is about ¾ of a mile long. \n\n\n\n2. Data Centers & Virginia’s Clean Energy Future\n\n\n\nA focused discussion on data centers and energy generation and transmission\, how these affect local residents and the environment\, and the challenges of balancing Virginia’s clean energy goals with growing energy demands. Discover how community members can help shape policies to protect our rural landscape. \n\n\n\n3. Connectivity & the Larger Landscape — from Blue Ridge to the Bay\n\n\n\nJoin PEC staff and partners for an exploration of habitat connectivity across our region\, with a particular focus on how conservation corridors like those being developed at Eldon Farms contribute to wildlife mobility and ecological resilience throughout the Piedmont. \n\n\n\n4. How to Meet the Demand for Native Plants — The Importance of Native Plants in Restoring the Upper Rappahannock\n\n\n\nLearn about the ongoing restoration work and the use of native plants to enhance biodiversity. \n\n\n\nAgenda\n\n\n\n9:30 a.m. | Gates Open \n\n\n\n10:00 a.m. | Check-in / Meet & Greet \n\n\n\n10:30 a.m. | Welcome & PEC Update by President Chris Miller \n\n\n\n11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Keynote by Thomas Woltz \n\n\n\n12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Optional Community Lunch \n\n\n\n1 – 2 p.m. | Choice of Workshops (attend one of the four options) \n\n\n\n2 p.m. | Event Ends. Explore Hill House Nursery\, Eldon Farms and Rappahannock County offerings on your own! The Eldon Farm operations team will be on hand to answer questions. \n\n\n\nWe hope you’ll join us to meet new people\, catch up with friends\, participate in one of our workshops\, and learn more about local efforts to build a stronger\, more sustainable region.  \n\n\n\n\nRegister\n\n\n\n\nQuestions? Contact Montana Lanier Ruffner at mlanier@pecva.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWorkshop Speaker bios\n\n\n\nWorkshop 1: A Walking Tour of Conservation at Eldon Farms\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn GenhoSince 2005\, John Genho has managed Eldon Farms\, a 7\,100 acre property in Woodville\, Virginia. In this role\, John oversees a staff of twelve running the cattle operation\, rentals and hunting\, along with the farm’s ecological conservation efforts. \n\n\n\nDuring his time at Eldon\, John also founded and led Livestock Genetic Services\, a company specializing in genetic analysis for beef cattle. In 2017\, he sold the business to Neogen and continued to support the transition for several years following the acquisition. \n\n\n\nJohn holds an MBA from Duke University\, an MS in Quantitative Genetics from Cornell University\, and a BS from Brigham Young University. He currently lives in Woodville\, Virginia\, with his wife and children. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKeely Murphy Keely Murphy joins PEC as the Conservation Field Representative for the Potomac Watershed. Keely got her professional start in land conservation in Colorado where she worked for Colorado Open Lands as a Conservation Fellow. Prior to living in Colorado\, she spent 10 years studying and working in Washington D.C.  \n\n\n\nKeely grew up with a love for the environment. But her time backpacking in Yellowstone National Park and canoeing in the Boundary Waters Wilderness especially ingrained the importance of protecting unique landscapes. Her interest in agriculture was developed during a literature class about food in America and she knew she wanted to tie her love of nature and interest in agriculture into a career. \n\n\n\nKeely has a M.S. in Environmental Sciences and Policy from Johns Hopkins University and a B.A. in International Studies from American University.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTeddy PitsiokosTeddy comes to PEC with a rich\, diversified background in farming\, nonprofit work\, and food systems education. Growing up in rural New York\, Teddy is most comfortable surrounded by fresh foods and clucking chickens. \n\n\n\nAfter graduating from Sewanee with a B.A. in Political Science\, Teddy worked on several organic farms in North Carolina and Virginia before settling into educational farming at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Western North Carolina. Most recently\, he managed the Highland County Virginia educational campus and farm for the Allegheny Mountain Institute. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEllie YoungEllie Young joined Piedmont Environmental Council as an assistant to the Plantings for the Piedmont program in February 2025. \n\n\n\nEllie was born and raised in Rappahannock County\, Virginia. After graduating from the University of Virginia and being accepted into law school\, she took time off to travel the world. After visiting more than twenty countries with only a backpack in tow and experiencing international food systems and conservation efforts\, Ellie realized her true passion went back to her roots and began a career in conservation. \n\n\n\nPrior to joining PEC\, Ellie spent the past few years working with other organizations in the area\, such as Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District and Friends of the Rappahannock. \n\n\n\nWorkshop 2: Data Centers & Virginia’s Clean Energy Future\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJulie BolthouseJulie grew up in Fairfax\, Loudoun\, and Clarke counties. After graduating from Clarke County High School she attended Virginia Tech receiving a B.S. in Fisheries Science with a minor in Watershed Management. Moving back to Loudoun with her husband\, Evan\, she went back to school to get her Masters in Urban and Regional Planning and a second Masters degree in Natural Resources.  \n\n\n\nWhile studying for her bachelor’s she interned with the Student Conservation Association in Shenandoah National Park\, Center for Aquatic Technology Transfer in the Jefferson National Forest\, Friends of the Rockfish River in the James River watershed\, and then worked full time for the Department of Wildlife Resources in southwest Virginia. After moving to Loudoun she interned with Rappahannock Rapidan Regional Commission for a year and led a Safe Routes to School modeling project with the City of Alexandria’s GIS Division. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAshish KapoorAshish Kapoor joined PEC in March 2023 as the Senior Energy & Climate Advisor. In his role\, he will be working with land use and policy staff to represent the organization on energy matters at the local\, regional and state levels. \n\n\n\nAshish grew up in western Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He graduated from Pennsylvania State University’s Schreyer Honors College with a Bachelor’s in Economics and Political Science and subsequently received a J.D. from Rutgers School of Law in Newark\, New Jersey. \n\n\n\nDuring and after law school\, Ashish worked as a public policy attorney on a variety of issues\, including environmental and social justice in the U.S. and abroad. Most recently\, he worked as a national solar consultant at Sunrun\, the nation’s largest residential solar company. \n\n\n\nWorkshop 3: Connectivity & the Larger Landscape — from Blue Ridge to the Bay\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMike KaneMichael Kane has more than 15 years of land conservation experience in the Mid-Atlantic region. In the late 1990s\, Mike created the Bucks County (PA) Municipal Open Space Program and the Bucks County Natural Areas Program\, two county-wide initiatives that successfully partnered with state and local governments and non-profit land trusts to identify and preserve productive farmland\, critical natural habitats\, and expand the amount of parkland in the county. \n\n\n\nMore recently\, Mike directed the start-up of the Loudoun County (VA) Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) Program. The PDR Program protected through conservation easements over 2\,400 acres of Loudoun’s nationally recognized historic and scenic landscape between 2001 and 2004\, including nearly 1\,000 acres of natural areas and historic sites in the county that are now open for to the public to see\, visit\, and experience. \n\n\n\nPrior to becoming PEC’s director of conservation\, Mike served as a land conservation officer in Loudoun and Fauquier counties\, where he worked with landowners\, conservation organizations\, and public officials to protect–primarily through conservation easements–critical land and resources in the region. \n\n\n\nIn addition to conservation work\, Mike’s background also includes experience as an urban planner\, fiscal and economic development consultant\, as well as work at a nonprofit community loan fund. \n\n\n\nMike received a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Johns University\, located in Collegeville\, Minnesota and a Masters of Planning from the University of Minnesota’s Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBryn SonnettBryn is native to the Piedmont with roots in Rappahannock County. Growing up in the area solidified her love and appreciation for the outdoors early on and inspired her career in conservation. She graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in Global Environments and Sustainability in 2016. \n\n\n\nAfter several years in Charlottesville\, Bryn returned to Rappahannock and accepted a position with Virginia Outdoors Foundation where she worked for the past 7.5 years on public access and private easement acquisitions\, amendments\, and stewardship of 1\,000+ easements throughout the Piedmont. She also served on the Preservation Trust Fund review committee and Baseline Documentation Report Committee\, and spent the last two years assisting with VOF’s long-term steward pilot program for mitigation bank easements. Previously\, Bryn interned at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and worked for several local small businesses. \n\n\n\nWorkshop 4: How to Meet the Demand for Native Plants — The Importance of Native Plants in Restoring the Upper Rappahannock\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanet DavisJanet Davis is the primary operator of Hill House Farm & Nursery. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture from Virginia Tech and has spent the last 28 years working in various horticultural pursuits—from apple orchards to greenhouses—all the while spending as much time as possible hiking in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Her time spent in “the woods” fostered her passion for our native flora and plant communities\, and spurred her desire to learn more about native plants. \n\n\n\nJanet has operated a landscape design-install-care business for the past 25 years\, and focuses on incorporating native plants into garden settings and “managed” areas while employing sustainable garden techniques. After starting a family and desiring to be at home more\, Janet started her greenhouse/nursery business\, Hill House Farm & Nursery\, which grows and sells only native plants\, primarily natives and select cultivars that occur naturally in the Mid-Atlantic region. \n\n\n\nJanet divides her time between her vocation and her avocation—raising both native plants and her 16-year old daughter—and lives with her husband and daughter in Rappahannock County\, VA\, just east of Shenandoah National Park.Her husband\, Rob\, is also an avid gardener\, a cabinet-maker and woodworker\, and he keeps everything running smoothly and standing tall. Janet refers to him fondly as “Mr. Infrastructure.” \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNick HeflinCo-owner at Piedmont Nursery\, Nick Heflin started early in the world of landscape. Maintaining and improving residential properties as a teenager\, to present-day larger-scale installation projects\, Nick brings an abundant amount of field experience\, a hard work ethic\, and industry know-how to the table. Partnering with his colleague\, Jennifer Seay\, in 2013\, Nick expanded his palette to include Virginia Native trees and shrubs. Together\, their team assists clients in the region with the design\, supply\, and installation of native landscape and planting projects. As a passionate outdoorsman\, coupled with an abundant love for wildlife\, Nick has a core desire for the preservation and conservation of the Virginia Piedmont Landscape.Nick LaphamNick Lapham and his family have owned Sunnyside Farm & Conservancy since 2006. Nick provides overall strategic direction and is also actively involved in on-the-ground management. \n\n\n\nNick is a lifelong conservationist with professional experience in the non-profit\, philanthropic and government sectors. Currently\, he serves as President of The BAND Foundation\, a family philanthropy focused on nature conservation and epilepsy care. Previously\, he held senior positions with Conservation International\, World Wildlife Fund and the United Nations Foundation and also served in the State Department and White House during the Clinton administration. He is a director of College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor\, Maine. \n\n\n\nNick attended Yale College where he graduated with a B.A. in History. His thesis looking at the legacy of predator control on public lands led him to start his career working on the issue of wolf restoration in Yellowstone National Park. Nick is passionate about nature and has a special love for birds\, an interest he picked up at an early age from his father. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn McCarthyJohn W. McCarthy joined PEC staff in January 2017. John retired from local government in June of 2016 after 28 years as Rappahannock County Administrator. He has served as member and officer of the Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission the RSW Regional Jail\, and the Virginia Municipal League Insurance Programs\, as well as on numerous non-profit organization governing boards including as Chairman of the Fauquier Hospital Board\, the PATH Foundation and the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation. \n\n\n\nHe received a Bachelor’s degree from Mary Washington College\, where he also served as an adjunct professor for twenty-five years\, and a Master of Planning degree from the University of Virginia. A long-time supporter of The Piedmont Environmental Council’s mission\, John is excited to be continuing his career with an organization so committed to preserving the quality of life and natural resources of the place he loves. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLauria McShaneLauria McShane joined PEC’s staff in October 2023 as an assistant to the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative. Prior to joining PEC\, Lauria graduated from Sweet Briar College in May of 2023 with her B.S. in Biology. Lauria also studied in the Conservation\, Biodiversity and Society program at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation in the fall of 2022.   \n\n\n\nShortly after graduation\, Lauria worked with the James River Association as a riparian buffer steward where she completed site visits and reports to help landowners fund and maintain their CREP sites.  Lauria also studied and worked in sustainable agriculture productions at her campus greenhouse\, garden and apiary where she discovered a passion for producing food in a way that respects the environment and the community. Lauria also works for Seven Bends Native Plant Nursery as part of their marketing team. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLinnea ShermanLinnea first joined the PEC team in March 2022 as the Headwater Stream Initiative Planting Coordinator\, where she worked to organize and facilitate tree planting projects in riparian areas throughout the Potomac and Rappahannock watersheds. She then supported the Land Conservation Department in increasing the pace and scale of riparian buffer plantings and fulfilling annual monitoring requirements on PEC-held conservation easements and fee-owned properties. Linnea now serves as PEC’s Plantings for the Piedmont Coordinator and is responsible for administering PEC’s riparian and upland tree planting program and supports land management efforts at the Piedmont Memorial Overlook.Before starting with PEC\, Linnea pursued various volunteer and professional opportunities related to her interests in land management and biodiversity conservation. She volunteered and interned at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal\, VA. After graduate school\, Linnea worked as an Appalachian Conservation Corps Individual Placement for the National Capital Area Invasive Plant Management Team (National Park Service). Linnea then joined the Fairfax County Park Authority as an Ecological Technician in December 2021 where she supported the Park Authority’s Invasive Management Area program. She also currently works part-time as the Regional Trails Coordinator for the Northern Virginia Regional Commission\, where she supports numerous projects throughout the Northern Virginia region.  \n\n\n\nLinnea holds an Associate of Science Degree from Lord Fairfax Community College and a B.S. in Environmental Studies and a Concentration in Peace and Justice from Roanoke College. She also attended the University of Oxford for graduate school\, where she earned an M.Sc. in Biodiversity\, Conservation\, and Management and completed a thesis exploring post-Brexit policy changes affecting biodiversity conservation in agricultural landscapes (https://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.12795). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSponsors\n\n\n\nThank you to Jean Perin\, George Ohrstrom II\, Helen DuBois\, David Aldrich\, Joe Gale and Ryan Crabbe for sponsoring this year’s event!
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/inspiring-conservation-pecs-annual-gathering-ft-thomas-woltz/
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250613T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250613T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250513T173243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T173308Z
UID:10001221-1749837600-1749844800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:American Kestrel Ecology
DESCRIPTION:Credit October Greenfield/PEC\n\n\n\nJoin us to learn about conservation efforts to provide nesting habitat for American Kestrels across the Virginia Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley.  \n\n\n\nOctober Greenfield\, Wildlife Habitat Program Manager for The Piedmont Environmental Council\, will present on American Kestrel ecology and conservation challenges\, followed by a field walk to learn about monitoring nest boxes. \n\n\n\nWhat to expect: A lecture-style talk in the library\, followed by a walk to kestrel monitoring nest boxes. \n\n\n\nWho can come: This program is designed for adults\, but children accompanied by adults are welcome. \n\n\n\nWhat to bring: Please be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for longer grass and uneven terrain (sunscreen and bug spray recommended). \n\n\n\nWhere to meet: Meet in the library (located in the Quarters building) \n\n\n\nTickets are available for purchase at the link below. Event organized by the Foundation of the State Arboretum.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/american-kestrel-ecology/
LOCATION:Blandy Experimental Farm\, 400 Blandy Farm Lane\, Boyce\, Virginia\, 22620\, United States
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250615T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250615T093000
DTSTAMP:20260403T202027
CREATED:20250528T163607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250529T181336Z
UID:10001225-1749972600-1749979800@www.pecva.org
SUMMARY:Grassland Bird Walk at Whisper Hill Farm
DESCRIPTION:Join the Piedmont Environmental Council and the Piedmont Virginia Bird Club for a grassland bird walk Sunday\, June 15 at Whisper Hill Farm in Scottsville\, Va. We’ll give a short introduction of the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative before heading out to bird watch and walk.  \n\n\n\nWhat the walk will be like: We’ll be walking in fields with tall grass and around the farm where produce is grown. The 2-mile walk has large paths but terrain may be rocky.  \n\n\n\nWhat you’ll need: Wear long pants as we’ll be walking through tall grasses\, sunblock\, insect repellent\, water and anything else you need to feel comfortable. Binoculars and a camera are a plus to get an up close look at the birds.  \n\n\n\nWhat you’ll get: All participants will receive a copy of the Meet Your Grassland Birds Field Guide to use during the event and to take home.  \n\n\n\nThe event is free but registration is required. A participation waiver should also be completed before attending.
URL:https://www.pecva.org/event/grassland-bird-walk/
LOCATION:Whisper Hill Farm\, 7127 Maple Hill Farm\, Scottsville\, Virginia\, 24590
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