Shenandoah County

Shenandoah Forum started in 2001 in response to the need for accurate, useful and balanced information regarding pressures for increasing growth and poorly-planned development in Shenandoah County. The Forum quickly grew into a strong and well-respected voice for conservation in the community. Shenandoah Forum’s participation and advocacy shaped the 2010 rural areas plan which created new zoning and subdivision ordinances to encourage land conservation in rural areas and growth in existing communities. The Forum promoted a new economic development plan in 2011 which supports economic growth that is compatible with the county’s natural and cultural resources, and it helped secure dedicated funding for the county’s purchase of development rights program in 2014.

Through the sponsorship of public forums, workshops and media outreach, the Forum encourages active and informed participation from Shenandoah County residents and adherence to Shenandoah County’s excellent Comprehensive Plan. For more than 17 years, it was guided by a vision that Shenandoah County would retain its rural, agricultural and historic character, support a healthy environment, promote a sustainable economy and provide a high quality of life for its citizens.

Shenandoah Forum was an all-volunteer group until Kim Woodwell was hired as Executive Director in 2007. Woodwell now serves as the Project Manager and Shenandoah  Coordinator for the Alliance.

• Shenandoah Forum publications
  • 2017 Newsletter – Spring / Fall
  • 2016 Newsletter – Spring / Fall
  • 2015 Shenandoah County Sentinel
  • 2010 Shenandoah County Sentinel