Loudoun developing natural resources strategy

As Loudoun County continues work on developing a Natural Resources Strategy, members of the public are being asked to share their thoughts on how to protect and enhance the county’s land, water and wildlife resources by taking a survey at loudoun.gov/NaturalResourcesStrategy.

Building on the 2019 Loudoun County Comprehensive Plan, the Natural Resources Strategy is intended to provide a roadmap to support clean water, healthy ecosystems and opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors. The strategy focus will be on practical, non-regulatory approaches for the county to take to responsibly manage, protect and preserve our natural resources, including streams, forests and wildlife habitats.

The county aims to consider a range of sustainable solutions, balancing ecological, economic and social factors to ensure that decisions about natural resource management support environmental health, economic vitality and quality of life for residents.

The strategy will be organized around three main goal areas:

• Leading by example in county government operations
• Defining, planning, and implementing natural resources conservation and enhancement
• Stimulating communitywide action

The Board of Supervisors endorsed the development of a Natural Resources Strategy as recommended by the Environmental Commission in May 2024 as part of the Environment and Energy Work Plan. The staff report prepared for the May 7, 2024, Board of Supervisors meeting is online (PDF).

The survey, which is intended for people who live, work in or otherwise have a relationship to Loudoun County, will be open through Dec. 31. A link to the survey and more information about the development of a Natural Resources Strategy is online at loudoun.gov/NaturalResourcesStrategy.