Wild Virginia Old Dominion Eco Buzz

At a time of climate crisis, mass extinctions, and ecological fragmentation, Noss’s vision of rewilding offers both hope and a roadmap forward. His research and advocacy show us that by protecting core wild areas, reconnecting fragmented habitats, and restoring missing species, we can reverse ecological decline and build resilient landscapes—for wildlife and for people. Dr. Reed Noss stands as a bridge between science and action, offering both rigorous ecological research and a bold vision of rewilding. His work challenges us to think big: to see beyond parks and reserves, and instead imagine whole landscapes reconnected, revitalized, and alive. In celebrating Reed Noss’s life’s work, we also celebrate the enduring idea that nature, when given the chance, can heal itself—and in turn, heal us.

Why It’s Important for Kids to Get Into Nature In today’s world of screens, busy schedules, and urban sprawl, many children are growing up without regular access to the natural world. But getting kids into nature isn’t just a fun way to spend a Saturday—it’s essential for their physical, emotional, and mental development. We're joined by Trail Kids RVA - an organization doing just that with children and their parents.  1. Nature Builds Healthier Bodies Spending time outdoors encourages physical activity, which helps children build strong muscles, improve coordination, and maintain a healthy weight. Climbing trees, skipping stones, hiking trails, and splashing in creeks are all forms of exercise that don’t feel like a chore. Plus, sunlight exposure boosts vitamin D levels, which supports bone health and the immune system. 2. Nature Supports Mental Health Being in nature has a calming effect on the nervous system. Studies show that time outdoors reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADHD in children. The sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world can lower stress hormones and promote emotional resilience. Even just 20 minutes in a green space can improve mood and focus. 3. Nature Sparks Curiosity and Learning The natural world is the ultimate classroom. Whether it’s watching ants build tunnels, identifying bird calls, or observing how leaves change with the seasons, nature invites questions and exploration. These experiences build critical thinking, patience, and observation skills. Unstructured play outdoors also fosters creativity and independence. 4. Nature Fosters Stewardship Children who grow up exploring nature are more likely to care about protecting it. When kids develop a personal connection to the environment—by watching a frog hop through the woods or discovering wildflowers in bloom—they begin to understand why clean water, healthy ecosystems, and conservation matter. 5. Nature Brings Joy and Connection Nature creates memories that last a lifetime—campfire stories, starry skies, and the simple joy of muddy hands. It also provides a place for families and communities to connect away from distractions. Shared time outdoors strengthens bonds and gives kids a sense of belonging. In short, nature isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. By helping children spend more time outside, we’re giving them the tools to grow into healthy, thoughtful, and engaged adults. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a weekend camping trip, every moment in nature counts.

Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast is the ultimate guide for local outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, kayaking, and so much more. Host, Jessica Bowser, joins the Wild Virginia podcast to talk about her favorite hikes and snacks to pack, but more importantly how critical connecting with nature is for stewardship and volunteerism. Tune in to this episode to hear about wild places that most folks probably wouldn't put on their Instagram bucketlist. 

You may have seen the exciting news over the last month or so — Virginia’s final state budget includes $450,000 in funding for wildlife crossings! This is a major step forward in protecting both wildlife and people on our roads. Thanks to the leadership of Senator David Marsden and the tireless advocacy of many partners and supporters, this funding is now secured. We’re incredibly grateful to Senator Marsden for championing this cause, and to all of you who spoke up, wrote letters, and helped build the support that made this possible. Dr. Jessica Roberts, Habitat Connectivity Program Director, and Misty Boos, US Conservation Policy Manager at the Wildlands Network, join the podcast to discuss what this means, why it's important, and what other states have done to foster habitat connectivity.

Environmental Nonprofits Struggle as Federal Shake-Up Freezes Key Climate Funds Environmental nonprofits are navigating significant challenges amid recent federal government shifts under the Trump administration. These changes have disrupted funding streams, prompted legal battles, and forced organizational restructuring. Sierra Club joins the Wild Virginia podcast [Old Dominion Eco Buzz] to discuss their path forward and offer hope to environmental advocates.

The James River, a river in Virginia that begins in the Appalachian Mountains and flows from the confluence of the Cowpasture and Jackson Rivers, meanders through the heart of Virginia for approximately 348 miles before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay. Its origins trace back to the Appalachian Mountains, specifically in the Allegheny Mountains, where the river's headwaters begin their journey across the landscape. This magnificent river has played a pivotal role in shaping the history, culture, and economy of the region. The James River is at risk from 1,100 toxic storage sites, up to 5 billion gallons of coal ash and millions of gallons of crude oil traveling along the shore.

Sewage sludge contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a class of chemicals that are toxic and persistent in the environment. PFAS are often called "forever chemicals".    David Sligh, Conservation Director and water issue expert joins the podcast to discuss this issue and its implications.

Activate Virginia began in late 2016 as a vehicle to address Virginia’s lack of competitive elections and corrupt campaign finance system through candidate recruiting, activism, and public education. Activate Virginia now serves as an all-volunteer network of researchers and activists who focus on uncovering corruption in Virginia and taking on undemocratic features of Virginia government. Josh Stanfield, Executive Director of Activate Virginia and graduate of the 2024 Clean Water Advocates Program, joins the podcast to discuss other issues harming Virginia's water like pipelines and the cruise ship industry.

The diamondback terrapin was once so closely associated with Maryland that the state's leading university adopted the terp as its mascot, and it holds the title of the official state reptile. However, this species has encountered significant challenges, initially from overharvesting for food and more recently due to drowning in crab traps. The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) has joined forces with 20 other organizations to advocate for Endangered Species Protection for the diamondback. This coalition, which includes regional organizations like Assateague Coastal Trust and Wild Virginia along with national nonprofits, submitted a petition to NOAA Fisheries last month, seeking protection for the diamondback across its coastal marsh habitat from Massachusetts to Texas. According to CBD, the Chesapeake Bay is “likely the most crucial location for diamondback terrapins across its entire 16-state range along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.”

This Refill Store is Cheaper than Instacart! (and More Sustainable, too) Fillagreen is an eco-friendly store located in Manassas, Virginia. It specializes in providing sustainable and environmentally conscious products to the community. The store offers a variety of items, including reusable household goods, zero-waste personal care products, and natural cleaning supplies. Fillagreen aims to reduce the environmental footprint by encouraging customers to adopt more sustainable lifestyles. The store often promotes the use of products that can be refilled, reused, or recycled, and it may also host workshops or events to educate the public about sustainable living practices. If you're looking to make more eco-friendly choices in your daily life, Fillagreen could be a great local resource to explore. TIPS TO BE MORE SUSTAINABLE WHEN YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR HOME PRODUCTS 1. Choose Eco-Friendly Materials Look for natural materials: Opt for products made from renewable resources like bamboo, cork, or sustainably harvested wood. Avoid plastics: Whenever possible, choose items made from metal, glass, or recycled materials to reduce plastic waste. 2. Prioritize Energy Efficiency Energy Star-rated appliances: These products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines and can significantly reduce your home's energy consumption. LED lighting: Use LED bulbs which last longer and consume less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. 3. Support Sustainable Brands Research brands: Choose companies that prioritize sustainability, fair labor practices, and ethical sourcing. Certifications: Look for certifications like Fair Trade, B Corp, or Cradle to Cradle, which indicate a commitment to environmental and social responsibility. 4. Buy Second-Hand or Upcycled Items Thrift stores and online marketplaces: These can be treasure troves for unique, high-quality second-hand furniture and decor. DIY upcycling projects: Get creative and repurpose old items into something new and useful, reducing waste and saving money. 5. Minimize Packaging Waste Bulk buying: Purchase items in bulk to reduce packaging waste, especially for household staples. Reusable bags and containers: Bring your own bags and containers when shopping to avoid single-use plastic bags and packaging. 6. Focus on Longevity and Quality Durable products: Invest in high-quality items that will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Timeless design: Choose classic styles that won’t go out of fashion quickly, helping you avoid the temptation to redecorate frequently. 7. Consider the Product’s Lifecycle Biodegradable or recyclable: Opt for products that can be easily recycled or are biodegradable at the end of their life. Repairable: Choose items that can be repaired rather than replaced, supporting a circular economy. 8. Local and Handmade Options Support local artisans: Buying locally made products reduces transportation emissions and supports your local economy. Handmade goods: Often crafted with care and sustainability in mind, handmade items can be a more eco-friendly choice. 9. Mindful Consumption Need over want: Before making a purchase, consider if you truly need the item or if it’s an impulse buy. Multi-functional items: Choose products that serve multiple purposes, reducing the number of items you need to buy. 10. Educate Yourself Stay informed: Keep up with the latest trends and innovations in sustainable products and practices. Community involvement: Join local or online communities focused on sustainability to share tips and experiences. By incorporating these tips into your shopping habits, you can make a positive impact on the environment and support a more sustainable lifestyle. Happy eco-friendly shopping!

Bulk food stores play a significant role in helping the environment through several impactful practices. We chat with the Trace - The Zero Waste Store on the Wild Virginia Old Dominion Eco Buzz podcast. They are Fairfax County's only zero waste and bulk refill store. Here are a few key ways they contribute: Reduction of Packaging Waste: Bulk food stores often encourage customers to bring their own containers, reducing the reliance on single-use plastics and packaging materials. This practice helps to minimize the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans, which in turn reduces pollution and conserves natural resources. Decreased Food Waste: These stores allow customers to buy only the quantity they need, which can significantly reduce food waste. Instead of purchasing pre-packaged amounts that might be too large for one's needs, shoppers can get just the right amount, leading to less spoiled or unused food. Lower Carbon Footprint: By sourcing products in large quantities and reducing the need for extensive packaging, bulk food stores can lower the carbon footprint associated with the transportation and production of packaging materials. Bulk buying reduces the number of trips needed for restocking and the overall environmental impact of distribution. Support for Sustainable Practices: Many bulk food stores prioritize sourcing products from local or sustainable producers. This supports farming practices that are better for the environment, such as organic farming, which reduces the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers, and promotes soil health and biodiversity. Encouragement of Reusable Products: Bulk food stores often sell reusable containers and bags, promoting a culture of reusability. This shift away from disposables to reusables helps conserve resources and reduce waste. Consumer Education: These stores frequently serve as hubs for educating consumers about sustainable living and the environmental impact of their choices. By providing information and resources, they empower individuals to make more environmentally conscious decisions in their daily lives. Through these practices, bulk food stores contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and help foster a more eco-friendly community.

Fill Happy VA is just that. You’re happy about the product. Happy about your carbon footprint. And very happy meeting the owner, Jana. She joins the Wild Virginia podcast to talk about her store and composting.   Growing up in a rural area has deeply ingrained a love for nature in Jana’s heart. Witnessing her 2-year-old daughter develop a profound fascination with the ocean, particularly whales and sharks, has fueled herpassion for environmental conservation. As a family, they delved into ocean-related topics and became increasingly aware of the plastic crisis jeopardizing wildlife, contaminating ecosystems, and contributing to global warming. Fill Happy serves as an inclusive marketplace, free from judgment. Jana believes that progress towards zero waste doesn't require perfection from a select few but imperfect efforts from millions. Through conscious consumerism, each individual wields the power to make a positive impact. Your choices matter, and every small decision contributes to significant change. I invite you to join us in embracing sustainable products, one step at a time. Did you know that plastic takes over 400 years to decompose, with more than 40 percent being used just once before disposal? At Fill Happy, their focus is on facilitating a low-impact lifestyle by offering simple eco-friendly swaps that are safe for both you and the planet. Something different from other refillery stores that Fill Happy offers: COMPOSTING. You see bigger cities like Vancouver, British Columbia offer it, but there was nothing available in Williamsburg. Composting is a fantastic way to recycle organic waste, reduce your carbon footprint, and enrich your garden soil. What is Composting? Composting is the natural process of breaking down organic materials, such as kitchen scraps and yard waste, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment called compost. This process is driven by microorganisms, worms, and other decomposers. Why Compost? Reduces Waste: Keeps kitchen scraps and yard waste out of landfills. Improves Soil: Adds essential nutrients to your garden, improving soil structure and fertility. Saves Money: Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and soil conditioners. Environmental Benefits: Decreases greenhouse gas emissions from waste decomposition in landfills. What You Need Compost Bin or Pile: You can buy a compost bin or simply create a pile in a designated area of your yard. Organic Materials: These can be divided into two categories: Greens: Nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings. Browns: Carbon-rich materials like dry leaves, straw, cardboard, and paper. What to Compost Fruit and vegetable scraps Coffee grounds and filters Eggshells Grass clippings Shredded newspaper and cardboard Leaves and plant trimmings Tea bags (make sure they are compostable) What Not to Compost Meat, fish, and dairy products (they can attract pests) Oils and fats Diseased plants Pet waste Synthetic chemicals or treated wood How to Compost Choose a Spot: Pick a well-drained area with good air circulation. Layering: Start with a layer of browns, followed by greens, and alternate. Aim for a 3:1 ratio of browns to greens. Moisture: Keep the pile moist, like a damp sponge, but not soggy. Turning: Aerate the pile by turning it with a pitchfork or shovel every few weeks to speed up decomposition. Patience: Composting can take anywhere from a few months to a year. You'll know it's ready when it looks dark, crumbly, and smells earthy. Troubleshooting Bad Odor: Usually due to too much moisture or not enough air. Turn the pile and add more browns. Pile Not Heating Up: The compost needs more greens or moisture. Mix in green materials and water lightly. Attracting Pests: Avoid adding meat or dairy products and make sure food scraps are buried under browns. Using Your Compost Once your compost is ready, you can use it to: Enrich garden soil by mixing it in. Top-dress your lawn. Use as mulch around plants. Brew compost tea for liquid fertilizer. Composting is a simple yet effective way to contribute to environmental sustainability and boost your garden’s health. Happy composting!

For this episode of Wild Virginia Coffee Talk, we chat with the owner of Refill Renew, a local refill store in Staunton and Charlottesville VA. They are your go-to bulk refill store for your everyday essentials. They provide communities with more sustainable options to reduce plastic waste and carry products that are free of sulfates, parabens, plastic, artificial scents and colors. Even when we do our best to sort our plastics and recyclables, global statistics tell us that only 9% of all recycling actually gets recycled. The best way to reduce plastic from our oceans and landfills is to reuse the bottles consumers already have. INSERT PODCAST REFILL STORES REDUCING PLASTIC WASTE Refill stores, also known as zero-waste or bulk shops, offer various benefits that extend beyond the immediate convenience of shopping. One of the primary advantages is the significant reduction in plastic waste. By allowing customers to bring their own containers and purchase only the quantity they need, these stores help cut down on the single-use plastics that contribute to environmental pollution. This not only benefits the planet by decreasing landfill waste and ocean pollution but also raises awareness about sustainable living practices. Another major benefit of refill stores is their ability to support local economies and small businesses. Many refill shops source their products from local farmers, artisans, and suppliers, fostering a community-driven economy. This not only ensures fresher, higher-quality goods but also helps to empower local entrepreneurs and create jobs. Additionally, because these stores often focus on organic and ethically-produced items, they encourage more responsible consumerism, promoting products that are better for both people and the environment. Refill stores also offer a unique shopping experience that fosters mindfulness and intentionality. Customers are encouraged to think about the quantity they need and the quality of the products they are purchasing. This often leads to more conscious consumption patterns, reducing food waste and promoting healthier lifestyles. Furthermore, the communal and educational atmosphere of many refill stores can inspire customers to adopt more eco-friendly habits in other areas of their lives, creating a ripple effect of positive environmental impact. THE BUY NOTHING PROJECT The Buy Nothing Project is a social movement that encourages communities to build stronger relationships and support networks through the sharing of goods and services rather than through traditional consumerism. Someone’s trash could be a neighbor’s treasure - this ideal also keeps things out of the landfill and prevents people from buying new! Founded in 2013 by Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller, the project started as a hyper-local experiment in Bainbridge Island, Washington, and has since grown into a global network with thousands of local groups. The central idea is to create a gift economy where participants freely give and receive items, fostering a sense of generosity, sustainability, and community. Participants in the Buy Nothing Project join local groups, often hosted on social media platforms like Facebook, to post items they want to give away or to request things they need. These items can range from clothing and household goods to services and skills. The emphasis is on reducing waste by reusing and recycling items within the community, thus minimizing the environmental impact of consumerism. Additionally, the project aims to break down social barriers by encouraging interactions between neighbors who might not otherwise connect, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. The Buy Nothing Project also promotes a shift in mindset from ownership to access, challenging the conventional notion that happiness and fulfillment come from purchasing new items. Instead, it highlights the value of community, shared resources, and the joy of giving and receiving without the expectation of monetary exchange. By participating in the Buy Nothing Project, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable and connected world, one where resources are more evenly distributed and relationships are strengthened through the simple acts of giving and receiving.

Eryn from Eco Inspired joins the podcast to discuss her company, an organization that provides you with products, tools, and resources to help you live a healthier and lower waste lifestyle. They are located in Bon Air outside of Richmond VA, and have products that have been thoroughly vetted to ensure they are ethically and sustainable made and sourced, good for you and the planet and most importantly, practically applicable to sustainable living. Eryn tells us a little bit about her story, why she started the store, the most common materials used as alternatives to plastic, and the Beyond Plastics movement. She has also adovacted for local restaurants to join the #SkiptheStuff campaign. Every year, billions of unused straws, utensils, napkins, condiment packets, and other items are added to take-out and delivery orders only to be discarded. In the United States, 561 billion disposable food service items are utilized annually, leading to 4.9 million tons of waste. Americans go through over 36 billion utensils and up to 142 billion straws each year. Many restaurants include these items in take-out orders, even if the customer doesn't require them. WHAT PFAS HAS TO DO WITH THE PLASTICS ISSUE Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals", are a class of manmade chemicals that are often used in the plastic molding industry. PFAS are used as a common ingredient in mold release composites and coatings, where they are effective at releasing molded plastic parts from molds. However, PFAS also have properties that make them persistent in the environment. PFAS are toxic at very low levels and have been linked to a wide range of health risks, including cancer, reproductive problems, and immune system disorders. They have also been found in human blood and breast milk, drinking water, soil, and food packaging. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that food packaging from around the world contains at least 68 PFAS. To lower your risk of exposure to both the harms of PFAS and plastics, you can try to: Use glass instead of plastic Use cast iron or uncoated ceramic instead of nonstick cookware Cook at home instead of relying on takeout Learn more about the products you can order through Eco Inspired by visiting their online shop, or join the voices of the Beyond Plastics movement.

The International Rights of Nature Tribunal held its 12th local hearing at the Haw River State Park in North Carolina this month. Led by our partners 7 Directions of Service with Movement Rights and the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature, it was the first Indigenous-led tribunal of its kind in global history. The Yesah Tribunal: Mountain Valley Pipeline and the Rights of Rivers had More than100 people attended in person, and dozens more tuned into the day-long proceedings via livestream. The Tribunal took place shortly after MVP experienced serious pipe failures during hydrostatic testing, all while developers are demanded FERC grant the project an in-service request.  They received their grant at the dismay of environmental groups and frontline communities. David Sligh, Conservation Director, joins the podcast to talk about his experience as an expert at the Tribunal, an update on what's next for the fight against the MVP, and context for Rights of Nature / Rights of Rivers as a legal instrument.

On May 23, 2024 Wild Virginia and allied groups held an online program to discuss the status of the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) and actions groups and individuals may take in the coming months to protect communities and the environment from further damage caused by the project.   In early May, the Mountain Valley Pipeline initially aimed for an official in-service date of June 1. This is far ahead of its original in service date of 2018... 6 years ago. However, due to a series of setbacks throughout the last month, the group has postponed this date once more, now targeting an early June launch. In a correspondence addressed to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, MVP officials attributed this delay to the extended construction period necessary to finalize welding activities on the project. They reported that fewer than ten welds remain outstanding for the mechanical completion of the pipeline. Concurrently, Mountain Valley is actively engaged in concluding all requisite testing, cleaning, drying procedures, and tie-ins essential for the pipeline's overall completion. We discuss this on the podcast.

In the spring of 2015, Dr. Eric Roy received word from a former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) member regarding elevated lead levels in Flint, Michigan's water. At that time, the residents of Flint were unaware of the water's contents and long before the city faced a public health emergency. Roy, a chemist specializing in water quality, took it upon himself to address the issue. In July 2015, he established Hydroviv and devised a high-capacity lead filter for Flint. Working from his studio apartment in Washington, D.C., Roy and a friend conducted pressure and leak tests, as well as prototyping for the first Hydroviv filter. With their lab set up in a bathroom sink, he shipped the inaugural filter to a children's organization in Flint just two months later, after locating them through social media. Roy also shares a lot of content on PFAS, so he joins the podcast to discuss why some states have protections, and others don’t.

Don’t be mistaken: taxpayers are paying for these big data centers. “What we know historically about fossil fuel plants is they're places in poor communities and black and brown communities.” Data centers in Virginia have become a focal point of concern due to their environmental impact. These facilities, which house servers and other IT equipment, consume vast amounts of energy to ensure seamless operations. The energy demand of data centers contributes to carbon emissions and strains on local power grids. Additionally, the cooling systems required to maintain optimal temperatures within data centers can lead to water usage issues and thermal pollution. So today we have Paige Wesselink of the Virginia Sierra Club Chapter on the podcast to discuss the important work that they doing related to the topic.

If we’re critically thinking about it - mushrooms have incredible properties and life saving attributes (umm, hello penicillin). Penicillin G was first made from a penicillium fungus that occurs in nature. Mushrooms show us that our environment is far from binary. Enter queer ecology: an emerging field that seeks to explore the connections between ecological issues and queer identities. At its core, queer ecology recognizes that the struggles for environmental justice and LGBTQ+ rights are not separate, but rather interconnected. By examining the relationships between nature, culture, and identity, queer ecology offers a new perspective on environmental issues and the ways in which they impact marginalized communities.  In this episode of Wild Virginia Virtual Coffee Talk, we discuss lawns, indigenous sciences, urban spaces overgrown nature taking over, The Last of Us, Abney Park in London, environmental racism, and how a lot of what we think looks good is actually really bad (for natural ecosystems and sustainability at large).

Wild Virginia is encouraging the public to let the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) know that we want it to prevent per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from being released to the James River in Scottsville. Tune in to this podcast on what the status is on PFAS bills from this legislative session, and how you can get more involved in the process.

Pollutants in drinking water can pose serious health risks if consumed in high concentrations. Common pollutants found in drinking water include heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic, as well as chemicals like pesticides and industrial solvents. These contaminants can enter water sources through various means such as agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and improper waste disposal. PFAS, a now realized issue in Virginia's water, is finally gaining media attention. Justin Shoemaker, founder of Clearwave Water Solutions, joins the podcast to discuss the topic. Shoemaker says the status quo regulations really put all the responsibility on the homeowner to ensure their drinking water is safe. "Water quality is one of the most underreported and underregulated things we use everyday... PFAS is not a new thing - it’s in our waterways, it will be in our waterways for a long time, [and] it affects everybody."

Founded as the Conservation Council of Virginia in 1969, Virginia Conservation Network (VCN) began as a roundtable of major conservation groups and has grown to include over 150 Network Partners across the Commonwealth (including wild virginia). Their annual Conservation Lobby Day is coming up and it’s your chance to lobby with fellow advocates in your district for environmental action that matters most to you. Wild Virginia is joined by Andreana Lin on the podcast to tell us more of what we can expect this year, and why you should join if you have never participated. Virginia Conservation Lobby Day is an annual event that brings together citizens, activists, and policymakers to advocate for environmental conservation in the state of Virginia. The event provides an opportunity for participants to learn about current environmental issues facing the state and to meet with their elected representatives to discuss policy solutions. This year, they are already at record registrations (close to 250) and are extending the event from one to two days. VCN is built on partnerships. That’s why they partnered with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) and their many dedicated Network Partners to host two exciting, full days of advocacy in the Capitol instead of just one! During the Water and Conservation Lobby Days, participants attend workshops, rallies and meetings with legislators in order to discuss important environmental issues such as climate change, clean energy, and wildlife conservation. The goal of the event is to promote policies that will protect Virginia’s natural resources and ensure a healthy environment for future generations. The event has grown in popularity over the years, with increasing numbers of citizens attending each year. Water and Conservation Lobby Days are a great opportunity for individuals to get involved in environmental advocacy and make a positive impact on their community. We encourage you to register for both days, but if you're passionate about Clean Water & Flood Resilience, you won't want to miss Water Lobby Day on January 30th. You can still talk about water issues at Conservation Lobby Day on January 31st, too, including all the other policy suggestions in Our 2024 Common Agenda and more! Register and reserve your spot here.

Jessica Roberts, Habitat Connectivity Director at Wild Virginia, joins the Wild Virginia Coffee Talk Podcast to discuss a new resource for Virginians to advocate for a more connected environment to help both wildlife and Virginia drivers avoid crashes.   Wild Virginia, along with our partners from the Virginia Safe Wildlife Corridor Collaborative, is thrilled to announce the launch of our new Habitat Connectivity Hub – a captivating StoryMap journey into the heart of our mission to safeguard both people and wildlife in Virginia. As one of the top ten U.S. states for wildlife-vehicle conflict, Virginia is in dire need of mitigation tactics, like the installation of wildlife over- and underpasses, allowing for safe passage of both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. Our goal with this Hub is to make connectivity data more accessible and transparent, so you can advocate for the connectivity needs in your area!

Clean water is a necessity of life, and while it is a physical resource, it also has a significant human aspect. Access to clean water is essential for the health and well-being of individuals and communities, and lack of access can lead to a range of problems, including illness, poverty, and social inequality.   Grethe Lindemann, a Virginia native from coastal Hampton Roads, joins the podcast to discuss her experience with the Clean Water Advocates Program. Sailing and the watery wonders of the Chesapeake Bay played a major role throughout Grethe’s early years. Skippering a sailboat at age 14 alone under the stars in the Atlantic Ocean away from all civilization, yet surrounded by welcoming dolphins and more, changed her forever. With her first career as an award-winning NASA research engineer later morphing to both for-profit and non-profit entrepreneur in challenged locales including Appalachia – the land of most of her forbears – her focus on sustainable development and environmental justice and protection took hold.

Public commenting is a vital part of government decision-making processes. It allows citizens to give their input and voice their opinions on policies, regulations, and programs that the government is considering. Public commenting ensures that the government is aware of the needs and concerns of the citizens it serves. The public has a legal right to provide input on certain proposed government actions and public commenting can occur on the local, state, and federal levels of government. Stephanie, one of the recent graduates of the Wild Virginia Clean Water Advocates Program, joins the Wild Virginia Virtual Coffee Talk Podcast to talk about the power of public commenting and how she hopes to use what she learned in preventing future environmental harms. Her goal is to work eventually with an environmental non-profit to make more of a difference in preserving our planet.

Environmental advocacy is a critical component of preserving the planet and mitigating the effects of climate change. Many people may be hesitant to participate in environmental advocacy because they feel that they lack the technical knowledge to make a meaningful contribution. However, it is important to recognize that anyone can be an environmental advocate, regardless of their background or expertise. Gwyneth Homer grew up in southwestern Virginia and learned about the importance of being a community-member, on a human and ecosystem scale.  From an early age, she valued justice, and was engaged in civic action, writing letters, or participating in marches.  Today, she works in childcare, hoping to instill the values of justice, love, respect, and empathy by showing loving-kindness to the children.  She continues to be involved in social and environmental justice work, especially fighting the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) since it runs through her county.  She joins Wild Virginia Virtual Coffee Talk to discuss the Clean Water Advocates Program, why she joined the course, and what she hopes to use from it against fighting MVP with organizations like Wild Virginia, Protect Our Water Heritage Rights (POWHR), and Appalachian Voices.

Carolyn Schuyler is the founder of Wildrock, an organization that hopes to promote nature play for health with the idea that when children play in nature they become future stewards. After stepping aside as the director, Carolyn was called to take more action to protect our environment. “The problems are so big that Wild Virginia really does need volunteers to be able to have the expansive impact that the mission calls for.” Carolyn says we all need to be stepping up, it can't just be people working for a nonprofit. It's got to be all of us understanding what we can do as citizens.   She is a recent graduate of the Clean Water Advocates Program, an education program to train a small group of dedicated volunteers (“Advocates”) to support Wild Virginia’s efforts to protect Virginia’s water quality.   “Clean water is essential to the whole ecosystem. If you don't have clean water, of course, it affects all the life that's associated with that water.”

Are you afraid of what life looks like in a drier world? Thomas Culligan says, “It’s a human health crisis waiting to happen.”  He references paddleboarding in the salt marshes of Charleston, South Carolina and seeing dolphins blow through their blowholes with a baby on their dorsal fin. Missing out on natural beauties like these is what he is afraid of if we don’t have clean water.   “It may sound cliché, but water really is life.”  Potential boiling water advisories, agricultural runoff into our streams, or a drier world in general: Culligan says it’s a recipe for disaster, but it’s 100% avoidable. Living in Harrisonburg, VA, he says they have been in a drought since June and need 6-9 inches of rain to revive their groundwater. Culligan doesn’t think things like this are talked about enough.   Tune in to this episode of Wild Virginia Coffee Talk to hear more about Thomas' experience with the Wild Virginia Clean Water Advocates program and why he wants a world still beautiful enough for the next generation to enjoy.

Alice Frei is a retired veterinarian. During her veterinary career she owned a small practice in Houston and cared for dogs, cats, exotics, and wildlife. After retirement she moved to Charlottesville, Virginia and became involved in environmental conservation. She presently volunteers for Rivanna Master Naturalist, Charlottesville Area Tree Stewards, Botanical Garden of the Piedmont, and Rivanna Conservation Alliance. Through RCA she developed keen interest in water conservation and health. She has continued monitoring Charlottesville area streams for cleanliness, bacteria, and macroscopic indicator species of water health.   She is currently a student in the pilot class of 2023 for Wild Virginia's Water Advocates Program. She joins the podcast to discuss her passion for the environment, what issues she hopes to tackle after graduating the program, and why water is essential to life.

Wild Virginia is excited to welcome Jessica Roberts, the new face of habitat connectivity in our state! She has a background in endangered species population restoration and has many years of experience working in animal husbandry, community-based conservation initiatives, and environmental education program development. Her research with behavior-based management and conservation translocations has been developed to give direct, usable evidence-based information for other endangered species restoration specialists. Her hopes for Wild Virginia’s habitat connectivity campaign are to combine advocacy, wildlife restoration research, and community-based conservation to enhance wildlife corridors in our state. Tune in to our newest episode of Wild Virginia Virtual Coffee Talk to learn more!

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) - “forever chemicals” - threatens our health and our environment. Initial studies conducted by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have confirmed PFAS contamination in surface waters, groundwater, and drinking water throughout the state. To address this pollution and public health problem, Virginia should use existing authority under the federal Clean Water Act to require disclosure and control of the discharge of these chemicals into our waters.

Join Publicity & Outreach Director, Katie Keller, to hear about some of the top environmental nonprofits in Virginia, across the country and even those with a global impact. You'll also learn about some of the incredible conservation efforts they are working on and how those campaigns are helping to combat climate change.

The Scrappy Elephant is an arts and crafts storefront and community that has helped to divert almost 30,000 pounds of unwanted materials away from the landfill. They are also a Wild Virginia business partner, offering our donors 10% art supplies when they show their Wild Virginia member card.  UVA / Wild Virginia intern, Haley Freeborn, chats with The Scrappy Elephant owner, Sarah, about the importance diverting waste away from landfills has on methane levels and climate change.   * AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO DIVERT MATERIALS FROM THE LANDFILL? BECAUSE LANDFILLS ARE BAD FOR OUR HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT. IN 1988, THE EPA STATED ALL LANDFILLS WILL EVENTUALLY LEAK. THAT MEANS THAT RUNOFF CARRYING WITH IT TOXIC CHEMICALS FROM OUR WASTE, ENDS UP IN OUR WATER SUPPLIES. MANY COMMUNITIES SURROUNDING LANDFILLS HAVE HAD THEIR DRINKING WATER CONTAMINATED BY LEAKING LANDFILLS. LANDFILLS ARE A MAJOR SOURCE OF METHANE. THE EPA ALSO FOUND LANDFILLS TO BE THE THIRD-LARGEST SOURCE OF HUMAN-RELATED METHANE EMISSIONS IN THE UNITED STATES. METHANE IS A GREENHOUSE GAS 86 TIMES MORE POTENT THAN CARBON DIOXIDE ACCORDING TO THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, MAKING IT A POWERFUL CONTRIBUTOR TO OUR CLIMATE CRISIS.

For this episode of the Wild Virginia Coffee Talk Podcast we are joined by Courtney Hayes who is the new face behind preserving Virginia wildlife corridors. She is the Wild Virginia Habitat Connectivity Program Director and has worked as a zoologist and data scientist for the Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, previously. Courtney is passionate about protecting wild animals, plants, and ecosystems through scientific research, good management practices, and getting people involved. She spearheads the Virginia Safe Wildlife Corridors Collaborative, a group that is connecting the corridors that support us all. In this conversation, we highlight some exciting crossing projects in our state and others like California's newest crossing project that will be the largest in the world.

Jessica Sims from Appalachian Voices joins Wild Virginia to talk about her story in the coal ash fight, and how that led her to fighting both the Atlantic Coast and Mountain Valley Pipelines. She talks about organizing, how policy affects our environment, how public commenting is critical to stopping pipeline infrastructure, and actionable insights listeners can implement to get involved in combatting climate change. 

In her words, being in nature has helped Alison Thomas “look at the big picture”… An apt expression, since Thomas spends her days outside taking pictures of some of the most beautiful outdoor vistas and getting closer to nature through this work. Thomas is an outdoor photographer, and her photography, which includes black and white and color images and panoramas, is inspired by her deep appreciation of the natural world. 

Tune in to this episode of Wild Virginia Coffee Talk to learn more about native plants and why local genotype matters. A plant is considered native if it has occurred naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, or habitat without human interference. Exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world or were cultivated by humans into forms that don't exist in nature do not support wildlife as well as native plants do.  Genotype means family.  That’s ‘family’ in the every-day sense, not the technical taxonomic definition. You share with your parents, aunts, grandparents, siblings, cousins, a constellation of similar genetic material that expresses itself physically as the family nose, or eyebrows, a predilection for cake, and more generally the way you see the world and choose to interact with it, unique to your particular band of people.  'Local genotype' means a group of families that live in the same place, and who likely intersect and interconnect through marriage, childcare, shared recipes, language, etc. when they're humans, and the botanical equivalents when they're plants.

Freeda Cathcart is a climate investor who challenged Warren Buffet, and for decades, was a passive owner of utility company stocks, content with dividend checks and confident that regulators had her and the environment's best interest. In 2017, Trump rolled back federal oversight of the industry and changed everything. Cathcart believes pipelines and gas won’t be economically sustainable due to competition from clean energy and pressure for organizations to cut emissions. She joined the Wild Virginia Coffee Talk Podcast to chat about concerns on energy companies’ relationships to pipelines like the Mountain Valley pipeline, and new rules proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission that would enhance and standardize climate-related disclosures for investors. "If you pay a sales tax in Virginia...your money is funding climate change, and you have every right to say that you don't want that to happen anymore."

Alex, owner at Dogwood Refillery, joins the Wild Virginia Coffee Talk podcast to chat about the toxic chemicals associated with plastic, why you need to quit them, and simple (realistic) ways to weed plastic out of your life. Tune in to this episode of Wild Virginia Virtual Coffee Talk to learn more about Alex’s passion behind starting the store, the benefits of bulk stores in terms of plastic waste, and what harmful chemicals you can find in everyday products in your home,

Politicians continually side with fossil fuel companies and perpetuate false narratives about pipeline infrastructure. We saw this with Senator Joe Manchin’s recent statement on the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Wild Virginia hosted Lorne Stockman, Research Director at Oil Change International to bust some of these myths and misconceptions.

Listen to Brie Hashem, Director of Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary, discuss the importance of crossings for orphaned wildlife in Virginia. The Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary is a nonprofit that works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release native wildlife in Central Virginia. In this podcast, Hashem shares more about the important work of the sanctuary in treating native wildlife and highlights the need for increased research on wildlife vehicle collisions to determine locations for crossings.  

Vernal pools are bodies of water that develop for short periods of time throughout Appalachia as a result of snowmelt and seasonal rainfall. During the seasonal shift from winter to spring, vernal pools become major breeding sites for macro-invertebrates and amphibians like salamanders. Steven David Johnson is a conservation photographer and professor of visual and communication arts at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Through his captivating wildlife photography, Johnson conveys Virginia's rich biodiversity and advocates for its preservation. In one of his conservation photography courses, Johnson helps students to utilize the visual narrative power of nature photography to promote environmental protection in partnership with nonprofits. In this podcast, Johnson shares what led him to conservation photography and focuses on his recent work documenting regional salamander biodiversity. He discusses some of his procedures for capturing their lifecycles, as well as some of the ethical practices he implements when working underwater. Some of his phenomenal work can be found on his website: Steven has kindly shared his amazing photos in Wild Virginia's popular series "Window to the Woods"

Listen to Wild Virginia’s Conservation Director, David Sligh, to learn about recent developments concerning the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP). The EPA recently released a letter with the recommendation to withhold a Clean Water Act permit for MVP. The current design of the pipeline threatens a variety of water bodies across Virginia and West Virginia, therefore the EPA does not recommend granting the permit. The Army Corps of Engineers has the power to decide the status of this permit. The EPA's letter cited serious and threatening water quality issues. Similarly, Wild Virginia also voiced these concerns to the Army Corps of Engineers. Ultimately, the letter aims to hold the Army Corps of Engineers accountable. Listen in to hear David Sligh explain the significance of the EPA’s letter and its future implications.

Conservation photography is the intentional use of photography to advocate and promote conservation. This includes being mindful of the impact of photography on wildlife. A photographer must be careful not to disrupt the natural habits of animals or their habitats. Loud sounds or an unfortunate misstep could have negative impacts on species. Lori Cash is a conservationist, wildlife photographer, writer, and blogger who has used nature photography to share the importance of conservation and appreciation of the natural world. In this podcast, Cash discusses the importance of ethics and consideration when capturing wildlife. This includes considering personal responsibility, the dignity of nature, and the power that humans hold over the natural world. Her work focuses on conservation in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

Join Katie Keller, Wild Virginia’s Publicity and Outreach Director, and David Sligh, Conservation Director, in their chat about the Virginia’s Water Future Campaign. In this podcast, they discuss the motivation behind the campaign, the specific changes it promotes, and the ways you can get involved.

Eleanor Goldfield, journalist, activist, and filmmaker, showcases the hard journey of West Virginia. "Resource colony, sacrifice zone, just a throwaway opioid state full of Trumpers and hillbillies...right? Yes, West Virginia is home to pain, suffering, oppression, corruption and bigotry – you know, so unlike the rest of the country. But much more than a microcosm of our agony, West Virginia is an example of radical resolve. Proud rednecks, the people here are still fighting and building in the hills and hollers; working to connect their past to a broken present and the potential future that we all share. It's a Hard Road of Hope, a pot-holed, precarious and puddled path past the Kings of coal and gas, but they keep walking. We would do well to walk with them for a while – and listen."

Despite developers’ hopes of completing the Mountain Valley Pipeline by the end of 2021, Virginia’s Department of Environmental Quality has told federal officials that it won’t be able to issue a new water quality permit for the project’s stream crossings before December. David Sligh, Conservation Director, hashes out the whole situation. DEQ's request is a big deal, which Wild Virginia immediately supported.

Over $500 million per year spent on wildlife / vehicle collisions in our state. Executive Director, Misty Boos, joins Publicity and Outreach Director, Katie Keller, to talk about connecting habitat and some recent legislation that has bipartisan support. Connecting habitat doesn't have to be expensive, we just nee to think critically and be innovative to protect wildlife and Virginia citizens.

Wild Virginia's Publicity & Outreach Director, Katie Keller, was joined by Daniel White, AKA the Blackalachian to chat about his journey hiking the Appalachian Trail, how he's staying sane during #COVID19, and even talk a little bit of trash. A true adventurer, he tells us about some of his favorite hikes and what he hopes to do for his next exploration. Email [email protected] if you'd like to be a part of #wildvirginiavirtualcoffeetalk