Informing Virginians about Forestry and Natural Resources

At the Powell River Project Research and Education Center, we are working to take the “next step” in coalfield reclamation by researching and demonstrating sustainable forest management in natural and planted forests on former surface coal mine sites. Our objective is to offer sustainable forest management in a setting profoundly affected by historical land use. read more

We are combining longstanding beef management with sustainable forestry at the Shenandoah Valley Agriculture Research and Extension Center – home to the Cyrus McCormick Farm where the mechanical reaper was invented. As a National Heritage Site, the Farm offers a fantastic opportunity to combine technical forestry education with a heritage experience. read more

We are developing a working forest management and restoration classroom in second-growth forests at James Madison’s Montpelier. The working forest will showcase a variety of research-based forest management tools. A trail system will service the classroom and tie into an existing network of trails traversing the estate’s old-growth Landmark Forest. read more

Lastly, preliminary work to develop an outdoor classroom in Arlington County is underway. In this instance, key aspects of Arlington’s green infrastructure will serve as the outdoor classroom. Property owners, urban planners, and community leaders will be able to learn about urban forestry in a setting with numerous historical opportunities and progressive green initiatives. read more