Now through Nov 15, 2022, the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative (VGBI) is accepting applications for its 2023 financial incentives program.
Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative
The Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative (VGBI) creates a resilient agroecosystem that benefits grassland birds through the work of the Piedmont Environmental Council, the Smithsonian’s Virginia Working Landscapes, the American Farmland Trust and Quail Forever.
Return of the Grassland Birds
The new Virginia (formerly Piedmont) Grassland Bird Initiative (VGBI) is showing promising signs of returning those birds to the Virginia landscape. With grant funding, the program pays farmers to adopt bird-friendly best management practices.
Video: Kestrel Banding with October Greenfield
PEC’s October Greenfield has been busy banding American Kestrels across our region to help track the movement and reproductive patterns of these beautiful falcons.
Re-aligning Land and Nature at the Holden Farm in Loudoun County
In 2021, the Holdens partnered with The Piedmont Environmental Council to permanently conserve their rolling 35-acre farm just south of the historic Quaker village of Lincoln.
Winter Birding Opportunities
Wondering how you can get involved in bird conservation this winter? Community science is a great way to stay active, contribute to science and learn more about local ecology.
Meet the VGBI Staff
VGBI relies on strong local partners and interested landowners working together with knowledgeable PEC and VWL staff — meet VGBI co-coordinators Justin and October!
Ways to Support Grassland Birds
There are several things that you can do around your landscape that will have a positive impact on our region’s grassland birds, both migratory and resident, as well as improve biodiversity.
An Introduction to Grassland Birds
PGBI Coordinator Justin Proctor shares his experience researching grassland birds.
What is the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative?
Native grasslands have suffered the most intense impact by humans of any of North America’s terrestrial ecosystems, resulting in grassland-associated birds experiencing a steeper, more consistent decline than any other guild of birds.