(Richmond, VA) – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced $15.5 million in land conservation grants to conserve over 8,600 acres around Virginia Monday.

Twenty-eight projects will be receiving awards for the fiscal year 2026 and include acquisitions to expand state natural area preserves and open spaces and parks, as well as conservation easements to protect prime farmland, working forests, historical battlefields and culturally significant lands.

Halifax County will receive the following:

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation – Difficult Creek Natural Area Preserve, Bournes Addition | $120,000
Acquisition of 23.5 acres adjacent to Difficult Creek Natural Area Preserve in Halifax County.  Located in one of the most significant essential conservation sites in the state, the property supports dozens of natural resources including habitat for four rare plants.
Category: Natural Area Preservation

“The Virginia Land Conservation Foundation grant awards will support projects spanning all the way from Scott County in Southwest Virginia to Virginia Beach on the Chesapeake Bay. I’m proud that we have made significant, meaningful investments over the last four years to protect our natural resources and boost our local economies,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “By expanding open spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities, we’re bolstering local economic activity while providing beautiful, natural places for Virginians and visitors to recreate.”