Project Description
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC), in partnership with Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's (VDCR) Division of Natural Heritage, facilitated an acquisition of approximately 110 acres adjacent to both the Shenandoah National Park and the Deep Run Ponds Natural Area Preserve (DRPNAP) in Rockingham County, VA. PATC donated 62 acres to VDCR's DRPNAP. The remaining acreage is retained by PATC, with an Open Space Easement held by VDCR. DuPont settlement funding contributed to this acquisition along with other funding sources.
Currently these acres are predominantly mature mixed-hardwood and pine forest and at least two distinct streams are present on the property, including Madison Run which is a tributary of the South Fork Shenandoah River and a popular recreational fishing stream. The area lies within a mapped “Important Bird Area”, as defined by the National Audubon Society, and would extend permanent habitat protection benefitting many migratory species. This project increases riparian protection of tributaries to the South Fork Shenandoah River, expand contiguous protected habitat, and protect important habitat for migratory birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and plants. This acquisition will also provide additional public access and improve recreational fishing opportunities.
Restoration Land Ownership
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Parties Implementing Restoration
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club; Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation
DOI Project Representatives
Fish and Wildlife Service