Monday, June 24, 2013

Over 500 acres of new parkland!

The graphic above shows the new park properties that have been added, or are near completion, over the last few years. Part of our Strategic Plan calls on the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority to "acquire lans and facilities with national or regional significance throug fee ownership, lease, use agreement or other methods." I believe that acquireing new areas of parkland is one of the most important missions of any park agency. We exist to provide public open space and facilities, to enhanse the value of the whole area.

With many of our sites having historical significance or being regional attractions we also play an important role in our tourism economy. The jurisidictions of Northern Virginia are all generate significat tax revenue from tourism. The underpinning of this large segment of our economy are tourist destinations, and that is what we provide through significant and unique parks.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Rust Manor and Sactuary in Leesburg

The Rust Manor and Nature Sanctuary in Leesburg is one of the new jewels for the Northern Virginia Regioanl Park Authority. Through an innovative partnership with the Audubon Naturalist Society who owns the property, NVRPA has lease the property for the next 40 years.

This is an incredible 68 acre property on the western edge of the Town of Leesburg, with fields, forests, ponds, and a stunning 100 year old mannor house, and elegant new event tent.




Leesburg Magazine Feature on Rust Sancuary including video interview with NVRPA Board Members Joan Rokus and Dan Kaseman from Loudoun County:
http://www.leesburgmag.com/Places/RustSanctuary.html

A fantastic new web site for Rust Manor can be seen at: http://www.rustmanor.com/