Natural Resources

Virginia Cooperative Extension develops and supports new discoveries, ideas, products, and services in natural resources and the environment. Virginias rich natural resources have a long history of use, misuse and changing pressures. Today our treasured natural resources are more valued and needed and simultaneously under more varied pressures, than ever. Every Virginian depends on the goods and services provided by our Commonwealth’s natural resources.

More than half of Virginia is forested, and more than half of these woodlands is owned by individuals and families. Woodland owners play an important role in keeping Virginia’s forests healthy and productive. This is a big responsibility because we all depend on and benefit from these woods every day. Virginia’s forests provide clean air and water, wildlife habitat, biodiversity, flood mitigation, carbon storage, and improved quality of life. In addition to environmental and social benefits, Virginia's woodlands and wood product industry provide important economic benefits. Forestry is the third-largest industry in the commonwealth, contributing $21 billion a year to the economy and approximately 108,000 jobs. Virginia landowners sell more than $350 million of standing timber annually.

Virginia's Environment and Natural Resources Extension Programs focus on the sustainable use, conservation, and management of our natural resources. These programs are delivered by a team of field-based and campus faculty.