Sewage sludge contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a class of chemicals that are toxic and persistent in the environment. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals”. David Sligh, Conservation Director and water issue expert joins the podcast to discuss this issue and its implications. How PFAS get into sewage sludge How PFAS in sewage… Read more
As the holiday season approaches, many of us are in search of the perfect gifts for our loved ones. However, with growing awareness of environmental issues, more people are considering the impact of their gift-giving choices. This year, why not embrace sustainability and give gifts that are thoughtful, meaningful, and kind to our planet? Here’s… Read more
Aquatic crossings, like culverts, play a crucial role in maintaining ecological connectivity and facilitating wildlife movement across landscapes fragmented by human infrastructure. Designing these crossings to be wildlife-friendly can significantly enhance biodiversity and support ecosystem health. Below are key considerations and strategies for creating effective aquatic crossings. What is the guidance for creating aquatic crossings?… Read more
The National Day of Mourning is an annual event observed in the United States on Thanksgiving Day. It serves as a time for reflection and remembrance of the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Native American communities. The National Day of Mourning is significant because it challenges the dominant narrative of Thanksgiving and highlights the… Read more
On Saturday, November 9, 2024, Wild Virginia recognized volunteers who completed a nine-week course that is designed to empower and equip individuals, communities, and organizations to protect Virginia’s water quality. Twenty-four participants were chosen for this year’s program, which teaches graduates about legal and technical frameworks for water pollution control and gives them practical tools to advocate effectively…. Read more
Driving through the scenic routes of Virginia in October and November can be a breathtaking experience with the fall foliage. However, it’s also a time to be vigilant about wildlife that may unexpectedly cross your path. Here are some animals to be on the lookout for: Deer Black Bears Wild Turkeys Foxes Raccoons Safety Tips… Read more
Through a tribal-wide vote, the Rappahannock Tribe in Virginia has become the first Tribal Nation in the U.S. to adopt a Tribal Constitution that recognizes the constitutional rights of nature. The new Rappahannock Constitution recognizes the legally enforceable rights of the Rappahannock River to “exist, flourish, regenerate, and evolve.” The Constitution also recognizes that the… Read more
The diamondback terrapin was once so closely associated with Maryland that the state’s leading university adopted the terp as its mascot, and it holds the title of the official state reptile. In Virginia, it is illegal to collect diamondback terrapins for commercial or personal use. However, this species has encountered significant challenges, initially from overharvesting for food and… Read more
Chevron doctrine has played a critical role in how the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is interpreted and enforced, particularly concerning the incidental take and critical habitat provisions. Incidental take refers to unintentional harm or harassment of endangered species, while critical habitat designates specific geographic areas essential for the conservation of a species. Under the Chevron… Read more
The Virginia Conservation Network released their Our Common Agenda, 2025 Environmental Briefing Book, including 170+ organizations, 99 environmental experts, 49 environmental priorities! Our Common Agenda is the most comprehensive overview of Virginia’s environmental policy landscape. Leading conservation experts provide the background for Virginia’s existing environmental policies that are in place, why the issue matters, and… Read more