Smithsonian's Virginia Working Landscapes

Leading with science, education, and community engagement to promote the conservation of native biodiversity and sustainable land management in Virginia.

Our Story

Virginia Working Landscapes is a program of the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Since 2010, VWL has been committed to understanding and sustaining Virginia's native biodiversity for the health of our working landscapes and the livelihoods that depend on them. We partner with a network of NGOs, agencies, regional private landowners & community scientists across a 16-county study region to perform ecological research that informs and inspires local conservation action. 

We Need You!

Together, we can conserve Virginia’s native wildlife and diverse ecosystems. 100% of VWL funds come from grants, donations & community support. By donating to VWL, you will help expand our efforts to:

1. Conduct innovative research projects at the intersection of conservation, agriculture, and communities

2. Build collaborations that maximize conservation impact

3. Showcase best practices on working lands

4. Cultivate future leaders in conservation science and practice

5. Translate science into conservation action

Testimonials

"It's been a wonderful experience meeting like-minded people from the different facets of VWL - from the gracious landowners and managers, to the passionate researchers. I'm grateful to participate in this program and play a part in helping to improve the natural environment in my home state." - VWL Community Scientist

"I wouldn’t have been able to survey on private lands without VWL, and having access to more properties gave me a reason to work with volunteer surveyors. Partnerships lead to more partnerships. Not to mention, the confidence I gained as a VWL intern is what enabled me to go back to graduate school and pursue a PhD." - VWL Collaborating Researcher

"This year we were proud to partner with VWL in support of their vital research. To watch and work with their citizen scientists was deeply rewarding. It has helped to give us a better understanding of our grassland habitat." - VWL Landowner Network Member