Snow plays a quiet but powerful role in shaping natural habitats, acting as a protective blanket for ecosystems during the coldest months of the year. By insulating the ground, snow helps regulate soil temperature and prevents plant roots, insects, and microorganisms from being exposed to extreme cold. This insulation allows many species to survive winter conditions that would otherwise be deadly. Snow also reflects sunlight, helping to maintain stable winter climates, and provides camouflage for animals like hares and foxes, increasing their chances of survival in snowy environments. As snow melts, it becomes an essential source of fresh water for rivers, lakes, and wetlands, supporting life far beyond winter. This slow, steady release of water replenishes soil moisture, nourishes plants, and sustains animals during spring and summer, especially in mountain and dry regions. Many ecosystems depend on predictable snowmelt to trigger plant growth, migration, and breeding cycles. Without snow, habitats can face water shortages, disrupted food chains, and increased stress on wildlife, making snow a vital part of Earth’s natural balance. If you want to propose a conservation project, please email Cathy Rastovski
Save Our Streams: Virginia Save Our Streams is a program of the Izaak Walton League of America. Founded in 1922, the Izaak Walton League is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected conservation organizations. Virginians have the right to know whether our streams are safe for swimming, fishing, playing, and drinking. Virginia Save Our Streams monitors the water quality of Virginia’s streams and educates the public about the importance of clean water.
The chapter seeks volunteers to help start a stream-monitoring program for five areas around the property. If interested contact Eric Brown or Catherine Rastovski on how you can help.

Follow these links for some lists of beautiful Northern Virginia native plants: * https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/soil-water-conservation/sites/soil-water-conservation/files/assets/documents/plantthisnotthat.pdf * https://www.plantnovanatives.org/_files/ugd/9c55f5_1d2d3e0424f0420dacbfc78a48acfb41.pdf
References: 1. Invasive Species: What You Can Do, The Nature Conservancy, June 28,2023 2. Invasive Plant Alternatives, Official website of Fairfax Country Government 3. Why Virginia natives are the best choice, Plant Virginia Natives