Last week, with the help of 56 volunteers, we planted 550 trees along the banks of Thumb Run on the Volgenau property in Fauquier County.

These trees will help improve water quality in the stream, a tributary of the Rappahannock River, by absorbing and filtering stormwater, preventing erosion, and providing shade to keep the water cool in the summer months. All this adds up to a healthier ecosystem that benefits fish, other wildlife, and all the people downstream who rely on the Rappahannock for their drinking water!

Head to pecva.org/buffers to learn more about tree plantings and get involved!

Special note for those in Northern Virginia: during the month of May, when you shop at your local Orvis store in Arlington, Leesburg or Tyson’s Corner, part of your purchase goes to support The Piedmont Environmental Council’s tree planting work. So be sure to stop by for Men’s and Women’s apparel, Fly Fishing gear, Mother’s Day or Father’s Day gifts and more!