Since its launch nearly a decade ago, the Virginia Conservation Assistance Program has grown by 300%—quickly obligating over half of its $4 million biennial funding during the last budget cycle and prompting a waitlist system—leading the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts to request $7–8 million in future funding to sustainably meet rising conservation demand.

Virginia is home to an incredible variety of native plants. If you're considering a shade bed, we have some suggested options to plant in place of some of the nonnative / invasive species that are used frequently in home gardens.

Virginia is home to an incredible variety of native plants. Maybe it’s time to try adding some edible native species to your garden and enjoy the fruits (and leaves) of your labor for many years to come!