We are pleased to share from Virginia Working Landscapes the launch of their brand-new Milkweed in Virginia: Identification Guide. While many are familiar with Common Milkweed and Butterfly Weed, did you know that Virginia is home to up to 14 different Milkweed species? This guide features six of the lesser-known species that you may come across in the landscape, helping you identify and appreciate the diversity of Milkweed varieties across the region! Click HERE to
Category: Uncategorized
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Online Course: Community Science for Monarch Conservation
Community Science for Monarch Conservation is a free, self-paced online course from the Monarch Joint Venture designed to inspire and equip people to contribute to monarch butterfly conservation through community science. Hosted on the Monarch NECTAR Hub, this engaging 2 hour course features videos and downloadable resources from several community science organizations from across North America to guide participants in observing and reporting monarchs across all life stages. Offered by Monarch Joint Venture’s Monarch NECTAR Hub. Enroll online.
Taken from VMN – Bi-weekly Email, Tiffany Brown -
Finding My Niche
I’ve been a Master Naturalist since 2019. While I’m usually drawn to citizen and community science projects, the opportunity to collaborate with Augusta County Parks and Recreation was one I couldn’t pass up. When I heard they were interested in partnering with our chapter, I knew I wanted to be involved. Natural Chimneys Park is close to where I live, and I’ve always enjoyed spending time there.
My interests—pollinator gardening and invasive species removal—fit perfectly with the park’s goals. Through this work, I truly feel like I’ve found my niche.
Finding Your Niche
If you’re still trying to find your niche, start by tuning into what excites you. Do you love birds, native plants, data collection, education, or trail work? Let that interest lead the way.
Here are a few ways to get started:
Explore opportunities in the Better Impact Opportunities Calendar and List.
Read the chapter’s monthly newsletter to stay informed about events and service needs.
Talk with the project committee if you have ideas or want to get involved in current efforts.
Every skill and passion has a place in conservation. Sometimes, it only takes one project to spark a lifelong commitment to protecting the natural world.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, feel free to reach out to me at cherylshull@yahoo.com!
Cheryl Shull -
Linville Caverns Reopens After Hurricane Helene Closure
Image taken from https://www.visitnc.com/listing/NkR4/linville-caverns
Linville Caverns, a popular natural attraction nestled in the North Carolina mountains, has officially reopened to visitors following a temporary closure caused by Hurricane Helene. The storm, which brought heavy rains and strong winds to the region, prompted safety concerns and led to the cavern’s closure for inspection and necessary maintenance.
Rescue and maintenance crews have thoroughly assessed the site, ensuring that the underground caverns remain safe for exploration. Local officials and cavern management emphasized their commitment to visitor safety and maintenance of the natural wonder.
Visitors can now once again enjoy guided tours through the stunning limestone formations, underground pools, and unique geological features that make Linville Caverns a must-see destination in the area. The reopening offers a welcome boost to tourism and local businesses, eager to recover from the storm’s impact.
For those interested in exploring this breathtaking underground landscape, updated safety guidelines and tour schedules are available on the Linville Caverns website HERE. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature beneath the mountains once more!
Watch this video above to experience the breathtaking scenery that Linville Caverns provides for visitors.
Rob Beaton
