Dear Friends and Supporters,

 

When I think of Essex County, I am reminded of how deeply our land and waters are tied both to our history

and our future. From the banks of the Rappahannock River to the rolling farmland and woodlands that

stretch across our county, this is a place where natural beauty and cultural heritage are woven together.

Generations have lived from these lands – farmers, watermen and families whose traditions are carried

forward today. The fields, forests, and shorelines are not only the backdrop of our lives, but the foundation of

our community’s identity.

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But with that rich heritage comes responsibility. The Rappahannock, which sustained the earliest settlements,

faces increasing danger from the lack of comprehensive water supply planning. For this reason, American

Rivers, a national non-profit, has designated the Rappahannock as the 6th most endangered river in America.

The most intense threats are from data center development. To date, there are thirty-one data center projects in

the works in the Rappahannock River watershed. We at ECCA are certain that it is only a matter of time

before our county is faced with such a threat. We had success in our advocacy efforts in Caroline County and

are prepared to show the same resolve for Essex should that threat materialize.

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We also continue to see threats from industrial solar developers. We believe in solar – in the right place – not

where it displaces productive farm and forest lands, or threatens environmentally sensitive areas. Across the

country, too much farmland has been replaced with solar panels. We don’t want that for Essex County and will

continue to monitor any new developments.

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This annual magazine is both a celebration and a call to action. It celebrates the beauty and history that make

Essex County unique, and it calls on all of us to take part in protecting it. Whether through conservation

easements, community partnerships, or education, we are working to ensure that our county continues to be

defined by its rural nature, abundant wildlife and open spaces.

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Our work would not be possible without your unwavering support. We are immensely grateful for the

continued dedication and generosity of our members, advertisers and partners. Your contributions have

enabled ECCA to make some positive changes in 2025. We were able to hire a part time Executive Director,

local resident Leslie Rennolds, who brings a new level of skills to our organization. And, we are now located

solely in Essex County.

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I invite you to reflect with me on all that Essex County has given us – and all that we give back. Together,

with care and commitment, we can face today’s threats and preserve the promise of tomorrow for future

generations.

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With gratitude and resolve,

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Lisa Dickenson Mountcastle

President, Essex County Conservation Alliance