Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 16, 2003
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State kicks off Stewardship Virginia: New volunteer campaign to help state's natural resources
(RICHMOND) – A new statewide campaign to encourage and recognize voluntary activities that have a tangible impact on Virginia’s natural resources was kicked off today by the state’s natural resource agencies. Stewardship Virginia will run through Oct. 31, encouraging Virginians to participate in activities such as stream restoration and adoption, habitat improvement, trail repair and historic restorations.
“Stewardship Virginia is designed to encourage groups and individuals to organize or join activities that have real, positive impacts on our lands, waters and cultural resources,” said Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources, W. Tayloe Murphy Jr. “It also recognizes these works. Everyone who participates in a registered Stewardship Virginia project will receive a certificate of appreciation from Gov. Mark Warner.”
Sec. Murphy was joined by Washington Redskins captain Jon Jansen and more than 100 Harrowgate Elementary School fourth-grade students at Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield to start the new campaign. Thousands of information and registration packets have also been sent to volunteer groups across the state.
“Our goal with Stewardship Virginia is to help connect the people of Virginia and their natural resources,” said Joseph H. Maroon, director of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. “But we want to do it with projects that make a lasting difference.” DCR is coordinating the campaign.
Stewardship Virginia promotes a suite of projects that enhance water quality, control invasive species, improve recreational resources, preserve historic and cultural resources, improve wildlife habitat or have an educational component.
Events can be registered and more information on Stewardship Virginia can be found here or call toll-free 1-877-42WATER.
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