PROTECTING NATIVE SPECIES
Our Commitment
Protecting Virginia’s native species for both wildlife and vegetation to support ecosystem integrity and resilience.
THE ISSUE
Virginia’s wildlife, their habitats, and their food sources are growingly threatened by encroachment and climate change. As human populations continue to expand into and impact areas of the state, we must ensure initiatives that protect the health and safe movement of our native species. Protecting wildlife helps to keep our ecosystems intact.
Land & Wildlife Conservation Recap: 2026 Bill Outcomes
Virginia Conservation Network advocated for 20 bills this General Assembly session that protect native species, support wildlife corridors, fund land conservation and outdoor recreation programs, and more.
Bill of the Day: Managing Atlantic Menhaden
Virginia must prioritize additional menhaden science & management practices to protect the health of Virginia's waters.
Bill of the Day: Virginia’s Brown-belted Bumblebee
Recognizing the brown-belted bumblebee as Virginia’s state native pollinator will raise awareness of their impact to our native plants, wildlife, and natural areas.
Bill of the Day: Wildlife Corridors
Virginia must establish dedicated funding and coordination to prioritize habitat connectivity and protect wildlife & motorists.
Bill of the Day: Managing Invasive Plants
VCN is supporting legislation to manage and control the spread of invasive plants across Virginia.
New Laws: Curbing Invasive Plant Sales
A new law passed in the 2025 General Assembly session will take into effect in January 2027, requiring stores to clearly label invasive plants where they are sold and direct consumers to alternatives.
RESOURCES
Catalyzing Virginia’s Wildlife Corridor Policy
Wildlands Network's Misty Boos recently shared her experiences in advancing the adoption of wildlife corridor and crossing policy in Virginia, during her time with both Wild Virginia and Wildlands Network.
Report: State of State Habitat Connectivity Legislation
The National Caucus of Environmental Legislators and Wildlands Network released a report on the progress of U.S. state habitat connectivity legislation over the past 25 years, offering trends, models, and examples for policymakers.
Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program
The Federal Highway Administration recently updated their information portal on the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, a grant program aiming to reduce wildlife vehicle collisions and enhance habitat connectivity.
Habitat Connectivity Hub
Our Partners at Wild Virginia have released their Habitat Connectivity Hub, a StoryMap showcasing pivotal connectivity and wildlife crash reduction projects led by Virginia Safe Wildlife Corridors Collaborative’s partners.
