RICHMOND, VA — Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced $14.4 million in Virginia Land Conservation Foundation funding to conserve 11,220 acres around the Commonwealth.
The 28 projects receiving grant awards for fiscal year 2025 include investments in new parks for the public, conservation easements to protect working timberland and farmland and two land acquisitions by Virginia’s Tribal Nations.
“We take pride in sharing the rich beauty of Virginia’s natural resources and historical places and remain committed to increasing public access so more Virginians can enjoy them,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Our parks, open spaces and other vital outdoor recreation assets drive tourism and economic growth, and they provide residents a place to connect with nature. Supporting Virginians so they can continue to work their farmlands and forests helps our key agriculture and forestry sectors continue to thrive.”
Grants were awarded in the following categories: farmland preservation, forest preservation, historic preservation, natural area protection, and open spaces and parks.
“By making significant investments that not only protect natural resources, but also our historic resources, we are able to ensure that Virginians can benefit from visiting these special places,” said Virginia Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources Travis Voyles. “When we increase public access opportunities, we allow Virginians and those visiting to experience all that the Commonwealth has to offer.”
“These projects selected for VLCF grant funding will help protect ecologically important habitats around the Commonwealth that support rare plant species as well as a variety of wildlife,” said Director of the Department of Conservation and Recreation Matthew Wells. “Virginians will benefit from the improved water quality of our rivers, creeks and karst landscapes resulting from these strategically targeted land conservation projects.”
VLCF board members are appointed by the governor, the Senate and the House of Delegates. The board includes the Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry. DCR provides staff support to the board.
Caroline County
The Conservation Fund, Hazelwood Farm | $440,750
Conservation easement through the Army Compatible Use Buffers program to protect 339 acres of prime, active farmland within Fort Walker’s Priority IA area for buffering the Army’s training installation. Managed under conservation and nutrient management plans, the farm has significant frontage on the Rappahannock River. Virginia Outdoors Foundation will hold the easement.
Category: Farmland Preservation
King and Queen County
Middle Peninsula Chesapeake Bay Public Access Authority, Robinson-Baker’s Creek Acquisition | $255,000
Acquisition of 513.32 acres to protect coastal and waterfront areas that contain significant ecological value. The project will provide underserved communities with recreational opportunities such as hunting, fishing, swimming and wildlife watching.
Category: Open Spaces and Parks
King George County
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Lake Caledon – Caledon State Park Expansion | $500,000
Acquisition of an undeveloped, mostly forested 468-acre tract immediately south of Caledon State Park to increase the park by nearly 20%. In a partnership with Trust for Public Land and the U.S. Navy, the project will increase recreational opportunities at the park.
Category: Open Spaces and Parks
