Dam removal can significantly benefit the environment by restoring natural river flows, improving water quality, and enhancing aquatic habitats. Removing dams allows fish to migrate freely for spawning and feeding, and it can also reduce the negative impacts of stagnant water, like excessive algae growth. In Virginia, at least 46 dam removals have been documented through 2021; recent… Read more
Air pollution might not always be visible, but it affects every breath we take — and it’s a serious issue in Virginia. From busy highways to power plants, air quality across the Commonwealth is shaped by a mix of natural and human-made sources. And while progress has been made over the years, pollution still poses… Read more
Imagine standing at the edge of a cold, clear mountain stream, the kind that tumbles over mossy rocks and cuts through ancient forest. You hear nothing but the sound of water and wind, maybe the rustle of a deer in the underbrush. This is Virginia’s wild heart — and it needs people like you. Becoming… Read more
Many everyday household items seem harmless — until they end up in nature. Whether tossed in the trash, washed down the drain, or left outside, certain products can seriously harm wildlife in Virginia and beyond. Being aware of these items is the first step to protecting the animals we share our environment with. Plastic waste… Read more
Don’t let chilly temperatures keep you indoors — winter in Virginia is full of outdoor adventure. From snow-dusted mountains to quiet coastal trails, the colder months offer a fresh and peaceful way to experience the outdoors. Hiking doesn’t stop when the leaves fall. In fact, many trails become more scenic in winter, offering long-range views… Read more
Virginia is home to an incredible array of wildlife, from soaring eagles to elusive black bears. But some of the most charming creatures are the smallest ones — the ones that make you say “aww” without even trying. Here are a few of the cutest critters you might spot in the Old Dominion. Eastern Cottontail… Read more
The James River, one of Virginia’s most iconic waterways, has a rich history — but also a troubled one when it comes to pesticide pollution. Flowing more than 340 miles from the Appalachian Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, the river has long been vital to Virginia’s economy, ecology, and culture. Unfortunately, it also became a… Read more
Fighting for the planet can be deeply fulfilling — and deeply exhausting. Whether you’re advocating for clean water, organizing communities, or battling bureaucracy, the emotional and physical toll of environmental activism is real. Burnout is common, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. Taking care of yourself is just as vital as protecting the earth…. Read more
As summer fades and the crisp air of fall settles in, Virginia’s wildlife gets busy — and that means more animals are crossing roads. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out to enjoy fall foliage, it’s important to stay alert behind the wheel. Fall is a peak season for wildlife-vehicle collisions in Virginia, and… Read more
Wildlife crossings improve connectivity and reduce dangerous and costly wildlife-vehicle collisions. Every year, thousands of animals are killed on Virginia’s roads, and countless vehicle accidents result from wildlife collisions. Deer, black bears, turtles, and other species face increasing danger as highways cut through their habitats. That’s why the recent decision to allocate $450,000 in state funding… Read more