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NEWS & STORIES
Stories of conservation, stewardship, and community across Virginia's northern Piedmont.
A Model for Modern Stewardship: OCHCF's Annual Safari Returns
The OCH Conservation Foundation invites the community to its annual safari experience at Glenstone Farm. Guests will experience conservation in action while learning how collaborative land stewardship is helping preserve wildlife habitat across Virginia's northern Piedmont.
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Celebrating a Landmark Conservation Victory at Bull Run Mountain Farm
We were thrilled to see so many of you on July 11th for a truly special day on Bull Run Mountain. The morning trail ride through Bull Run Mountain Farm was a full house, with riders enjoying the sweeping views, rolling hills, and a guided journey into the farm’s rich history. Our deepest thanks go to Claude Schoch for not only hosting us but also for his extraordinary work in reopening the old road and creating a remarkable trail loop that led us past several historic landmarks—including the beautifully preserved 1822 mill.
Later that evening, we raised a glass together to celebrate an exciting milestone: on July 10th, the conservation easement was officially recorded with the Land Trust of Virginia. This marks the successful conclusion of our long effort to protect Bull Run Mountain Farm from the threat of cluster subdivision. Thanks to your incredible generosity and steadfast support, this vital part of our landscape is now preserved—forever.
As you drive down Bull Run Mountain Road, we hope you feel the same pride and sense of relief we do, knowing this place will remain untouched for generations to come.
Thank you for standing with us. Your involvement has made all the difference. As we look ahead to placing the farm in the hands of a new steward in 2026, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you know of someone who would be a thoughtful future caretaker of this extraordinary property.
— The OCHCF Team
OCH Conservation Foundation Announces Philanthropic Gift to Virginia Working Landscapes
We are excited to announce a new philanthropic agreement with Virginia Working Landscapes (VWL) and hope that you will join us in supporting this initiative. The OCH Conservation Foundation (OCHCF) Board has approved a grant to VWL to sponsor a Biodiversity Technician for the next three years.
This new biologist will expand VWL's capacity across the region, with a particular focus on Northern Fauquier County. Beginning in January 2024, the position will support additional biodiversity surveys, educational outreach, and new research that strengthens wildlife habitat conservation throughout our region.
Collaboration with VWL leverages the strengths of both organizations and furthers our shared conservation mission. While maintaining OCHCF's all-volunteer structure, this partnership allows us to significantly increase our impact on the preservation of our cherished rural landscapes.
We have committed approximately $62,000 annually to this initiative, with support from our Board and generous donors who share our commitment to protecting wildlife habitat and encouraging responsible land stewardship. We are grateful for any level of support and invite you to consider making a three-year pledge.
We look forward to discussing this initiative with you and are excited about the lasting benefit it will bring to our community. For more information, please contact info@ochcf.org.
Virginia Working Landscapes is a program of the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute that promotes the conservation of native biodiversity and sustainable land management through research, education, and community engagement. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Front Royal, Virginia, VWL currently serves sixteen counties through research, partnerships, and community outreach.
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Every conservation success begins with people who care deeply about this place. Whether you join us at an upcoming event, learn about our conservation initiatives, or make a gift, your support helps preserve Virginia's northern Piedmont for generations to come.
