To date, PEC has helped landowners permanently protect more than 430,000 acres of land in our nine-county region. Our work centers around accelerating the pace of land conservation, ensuring clean water, enhancing wildlife habitat and expanding public access. Get started on your land conservation journey with our free easement brochure.
Cost-Share Programs for Land Management
Learn about funding options for land management activities on your property …
Intro to Conservation Easements
An easement is a voluntary land preservation agreement between a landowner and a land conservation organization, designed to protect the …
A Match Made in Conservation
Stepping into land conservation for the first time, or starting a new conservation project, can feel as intimidating or overwhelming as a first date might feel. But in these brightly lit rooms with friendly faces, …
The Next Chapter for Aldie Assemblage
The Piedmont Environmental Council this summer became the proud new owner of six acres in the Village of Aldie, known as the Aldie Assemblage …
A Win/Win for Farmers
Mike Willis, his wife Judy, and stepson Wesley know that farming is not for the faint of heart …
Partnership for the Ages
The Hellmanns are glad to know that their corner of the world will remain intact — a place where generations to come can enjoy the native wildflowers alongside Bear Trail, the hardwoods they plan to …
Rural Landowner Manual: A Resource Guide for the Northern Piedmont
The publication includes a list of experts, programs and opportunities to assist landowners, with practical advice on navigating the complexities of rural property stewardship …
Conservation Stories Across the Region: Beth Plentovich and Howie Kelly, Protection Through Perseverance
Beth Plentovich and Howie Kelly know the true importance of relentless incrementalism for achieving exponential results …
A Conservation Journey in Madison County
Carolyn Smith’s Madison County property has been on quite the journey since her parents first purchased the former cattle operation in 1965. Donating a 129-acre conservation easement in late 2023 came on the heels of …
6,315 acres conserved in nine-county region last year
The Piedmont Environmental Council reports that in 2023, 6,315 acres of land in Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange and Rappahannock counties were permanently protected with 52 new conservation easements …
Three Advocacy Priorities That Need Your Attention
Since the General Assembly began its 2024 session, the newly-opened General Assembly office building and the Capitol have seen frenetic activity, day in and day out. Many bills that were introduced in January have now …
Conservation Community Priorities for the 2024 General Assembly
With the many issues facing Virginia throughout the upcoming session, PEC staff will work with VCN and other allies to testify before the legislature, speak about budget priorities and amendments, and help lead with our …
