The Understory – March 21, 2025
March 21, 2025 5:42 pm
DOF Plays Defense in Southwest Virginia
When not responding to wildfires during the last week of February, DOF’s Western Region conducted two wildfire mitigation projects in Southwest Virginia. By proactively removing vegetation, dead leaves and woody debris, communities are better protected against wildfires.
The first project was conducted in a community within Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County. Surrounded by woodlands with a highly trafficked campground nearby, the community is at high wildfire risk. In partnership with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Pulaski County Emergency Management, the crew created a mile-long fuel break around the community.
The second project aimed to increase defensible space around the Catawba Hospital in Roanoke County. Crews removed a large buildup of fuels, especially downed limbs resulting from recent winter storms, in a perimeter around the hospital and its compound buildings.
In communities surrounded by woodlands, first responders are often spread thin during initial wildfire response. These proactive projects, funded using State Fire Assistance Wildfire Hazard Mitigation funding, highlight DOF’s invaluable partnerships with localities and fellow state agencies. You too, can protect your home and community from wildfires. Learn more on DOF’s website
Harrisonburg Callery Pear Exchange – April 12
Spring is in the air and so is the distinctive aroma of invasive Callery pear blooms. DOF is partnering with the City of Harrisonburg to host the next Callery Pear Exchange event on Saturday, April 12. Remove Callery pear trees from your property, take a picture, then register online to receive up to three native replacement trees. For details, registration and resources for tree ID and removal, visit DOF’s website.
Inventory Low! Order Your Virginia Seedlings Today
Just in time for planting season, DOF’s nurseries have begun shipping seedling orders. Haven’t gotten your order in? More than 30 coniferous, hardwood and shrub species are still available, all grown at our nurseries in Sussex and Augusta counties and ready to thrive on your property. Order soon, the store closes on April 26. Inventory is already running low on popular species like sweetbay magnolia, red maple and Chickasaw plum. Customers can order today and pick seedlings up or have them shipped. Visit BuyVATrees.com for more details.
Tags: The Understory
Category: Education, Public Information