Protecting the legendary Shenandoah Valley for nearly 35 years

Located between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, the region is one of the most biologically diverse in the world. The Shenandoah Valley is not only a well-traveled corridor for migratory birds, but animals as well. From black bears and bobcats to Brook Trout and Shenandoah Salamanders, both common and rare plants and animals call the land, water and skies of our region home. They can find the perfect place to live in the rich variety of environments here as long as uninterrupted landscapes, private and public, remain intact.

The Valley’s rich farmland, which has long played an important economic role in Virginia, can remain productive into the future despite changing weather patterns. Our rich agricultural legacy has a vibrant future if we take steps to conserve it today.

The region forms the headwaters of the James River and Potomac River – two major tributaries to the Chesapeake Bay. Protecting land is key for securing clean water. The Chesapeake Bay watershed forms a unique foodscape with terrestrial and marine components. The agricultural practices of farmers in the Shenandoah Valley impact the harvest of watermen in the Chesapeake Bay.

With the region’s patchwork of pastoral lands and wild open spaces, it’s only natural that people flock here for outdoor recreation – hiking, fishing, camping, paddling and pedaling. Protecting our lands and waters ensures this growing economic sector can increase the vigor and resilience of our rural economy.