The Sierra Club York River Group’s May 19 2021 program, “Get Outdoors: History and Natural Wonders at our Virginia Parks,” drew a large online crowd of attendees.  The program featured a presentation by Chris Lowie, manager of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, comments by Congressman Donald McEachin on legislation he has proposed for making the refuge a National Heritage Area, and information from Diane Kaufman, Senator Tim Kaine’s Regional Director for eastern Virginia, on a companion bill in the U.S. Senate.   Glen Besa brought the evening to a close with an informative slide presentation on black history found at various locations in Virginia.

Many of our pro-environment elected officials joined the program, including Congressman McEachin, Congressman Bobby Scott, State Delegate Shelly Simonds, Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck, Newport News Councilmember Dave Jenkins, and Chesapeake City Councilmember Dr. Ella Ward.

Not only is the Great Dismal Swamp a wetland habitat with significant biodiversity, it also holds a lot of cultural significance.  It was known as a route and destination for slaves seeking freedom before the Civil War.  Currently, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, birding, and other outdoor activities there.

Our region of Virginia has many opportunities (like the Great Dismal Swamp) for people to responsibly enjoy nature and learn more about the natural world and history in the process.