Blue Ridge School continues to practice wise stewardship of environmental resources; our rural and forested property means that many sustainability initiatives are rooted in land management. Brokenback Mountain, which serves as a picturesque backdrop to campus, is more than a place for biking trails or to escape the summer heat; it is the headwaters for numerous springs and forest habitat that connect to the greater James River Watershed and Blue Ridge Mountains.

Over the past several years the school’s land management practices have specifically focused on invasive species control and habitat reclamation. Several of these efforts recently culminated with the planting of over 100 hardwood trees and the conversion of 17 acres to native grasses and wildflowers. Restoration of habitats support pollinator and songbird populations and add to the campus’ peaceful beauty. Conversion of turf areas to forest and pollinator meadow also reduces the school’s carbon footprint by decreasing mowing and allowing for the build-up of native biomass.

A Forest Management Plan is currently under development to guide the school in continuing to steward the mountain property. Ches Goodall (pictured at left) and Brian Morse (right), co-founders of Virginia Forestry and Wildlife Group, are beginning a survey of the school property for development of the plan. This thorough survey, completed by a team that includes a Forester and a Wildlife Biologist, will provide an ecologically-based assessment of the property and formally identify strategies to improve forest health, habitat, water quality, and invasive species control. This plan is one more way to show our students, in practice, how to remain committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Our students will continue to experience the benefit of healthy land through the Outdoor Education Program, and even get involved in sustainability initiatives through the Environmental Studies curriculum and various Community Service opportunities.