Virginia

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation – Natural Heritage Program (http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural_heritage/index.shtml)
The Natural Heritage Program provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. A searchable database is available that can provide lists of threatened and endangered species by county, watershed or physiographic region. **A fee is charged to compile species lists and information for site-specific requests.

Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/)
This is the agency responsible for the conservation and management of the state’s wildlife and aquatic resources. In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

Virginia Department of Historic Resources (http://www.dhr.virginia.gov/)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties, archaeological sites, burial places, and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The Department maintains the Data Sharing System, a database of documented historic and cultural resources in the state. The location of many of these resources are also mapped and can be viewed in the GIS portion of the Data Sharing System. A license must be obtained to access the system.

Natural Resources Conservation Service - Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The following list can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/ECS/culture/newdir.pdf/

Virginia Historical Society and Library of Virginia (http://www.vahistorical.org/research/main.htm, http://www.lva.virginia.gov/)
The Historical Society and Library identify, preserve, and make accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Best Management Practices