– We have forests, fields, ponds and streams we have restored or we maintain to protect special communities of plants and animals. They may include rare, threatened or endangered species, exceptionally valuable species or special habitats or niches that provide support for certain species. This may also include unique ecosystems.
– We have locations that contain rare, unusual or otherwise important geological formations. This can include both attractive as well as valuable topographic features as well as subsurface features. In Madison County VA we have rich soils with granite and quartz. Limestone caverns and Thorn Creek, native trout stream Pendleton Co. WV
– We have places where human relics of archeological and historical significance. Early Native American relics have been found in Madison CO. VA at Elk Run where there is thought to be a pronounced Indian burial site. We have a grave site where a Revolutionary War soldier is buried. At Rural Retreat we have the oldest standing house in Madison, dating from 1815. By this house is another grave yard containing Civil War site markers.
– We have set aside and managed land specifically to offer the general public and those interested the opportunity to learn and grow to come to relate to and understand ecology, geology and history. We host outdoor events like the Foothills Festival , workshops like the Seventh Grade Conservation Day , and competitions like the Envirothon.
– Hunting is used to control the deer and turkey population as well as keep it healthy in Louisa County, Madison County and Washington County VA, and deer in Pendleton County WV. Fishing is possible in ponds in Louisa County and Madison County We have eight ponds from 1/8 acre to 2 acres and several major streams (Gilmore and Elk Run) in Madison VA where there is fishing, with swimming and some boating in the two largest ponds.