Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
By Janel Fuller
Located between Wise and Dickenson counties is where 17 miles of varied landscape nestles the Pound River. On July 1, 2020, 17 miles of the Pound River was designated as a Virginia Scenic River. The designation came at an ideal time, as Virginia celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Scenic Rivers Program. Since the program was established in 1970, Virginia has identified 36 waterways as the most outstanding in the state. The Scenic Rivers Program is administered by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and receives support from citizens, enthusiasts and organizations across the state.
"Initially, I felt that Pound River would be a great asset for the designation, as there were several groups and a lot of our residents who took advantage of the outdoor fun they had floating on the river,” said Rita Surratt, tourism director in Dickenson County.
After further research with Lynn Crump, DCR scenic resources coordinator, Surratt, along with local river guide, Rick Barton, floated the area of the Pound River identified as the area that could provide access for many recreational activities. With further help from the County Board of Supervisors, a letter of intent was approved to propose to Delegate Will Wampler.
“He was very supportive of our proposal and was instrumental in helping the bill pass in the Virginia General Assembly in March of 2020,” Surratt emphasized. With this designation now in place, this area is an environment to enjoy, protect and provide economic growth for the state.
Already poised as a place to enjoy nature, the Pound River has particular unique characteristics that showcase its scenic qualities. While exploring the shoreline of this river, be on the lookout for a Drooping Trillium. This beauty grows in the shade and the sunlight filtered through a draped canopy of trees.
Venturing into the river to kayak or swim, the sighting of a Big Sandy Crayfish on a big rock or swimming through the water, is worth pausing to recognize. This species exists in low polluted areas, so it’s a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the importance of preserving the river’s cleanliness while enjoying their habitat.
During the review of the river’s designation, the high quality of water made a big impact on the decision to protect this stretch of the Pound River. Along the access points to the river, kayakers and other enthusiasts are able to explore the water on their own or with local guides.
Within the surrounding counties of the Pound River, local citizens and businesses have been instrumental in providing economic support to Southwest Virginia. Co-founders of the Outdoor Adventure Center, Rick Barton and Scarlet Collie have such passion for the water in the Pound River that they have dedicated their careers to educating others. They provide kayak rentals, guided tours and a wealth of knowledge.
“I’ve had several opportunities to witness the impact of perspective on people; church groups that book every weekend in the summer because it feels so good; families out to try something new; birdwatchers, anglers, first-timers, and they all have that same glazed look of amazement when you pull them out,” Barton shares.
Collie shares his passion as well as deep roots in the conservation of the natural resources in the area.
“My entire life is built on the appreciation of our landscape here in Southwest Virginia,” says Collie, “so I want to educate people about the rich landscape we have here, that I get to enjoy every day.”
The community surrounding the Pound River depends on visitors from around the state to stabilize an ever-changing economy. Take a look into other opportunities to immerse yourself in a community that can provide a glimpse of what is available to enjoy. Even when the world seems to be in turmoil, nature reminds us that we have a refuge waiting for us, when we are willing to look.
Photo Credit: Rick Barton
Going up home to live in green pastures
Where we shall live and die never more
Even the Lord will be in that number
When we have reached that heavenly shore
Going Up Home To Live in Green Pastures
The Stanley Brothers
(Bluegrass duo from Dickenson County, VA)
