Gratitude and Hope

Throughout a tumultuous 2025, our work at the Alliance has been defined by common ground. Whether we were working with local watershed groups or land trusts, community advocates or farming neighbors, we have seen that we all share a deep respect for the natural resources that sustain our way of life here in the Valley.

In our newsletters this year, we’ve focused on two vital pieces of the Valley’s future. First, we highlighted the incredible work of individual landowners who are taking voluntary steps to conserve their property. From clean water practices to conservation easements, these are meaningful actions that ensure the Valley’s rural character remains for the next generation.

Then, just this month, we took a deep dive into the surge of data center interestacross our region. We’ve positioned ourselves as a resource for our localities as they craft ordinances that balance economic opportunity with the protection of our shared water and power resources.

Our team of 12 staff and 11 board members provides the technical expertise on these and the many other issues that affect our land, water, and people, but the real impact comes from you. We are grateful for your willingness to stay informed on complex land-use issues and for the financial support that makes our professional advocacy possible.

Our 2026 Roadmap: Securing a Local Legacy

As we embark on 2026, our focus is on ensuring that local voices shape the future of the Valley:

• Local Planning in Action: We will stay active in the implementation of the new comprehensive plans in Rockingham, Shenandoah, Warren, and Augusta counties, and help finalize the long-term vision for Page—ensuring growth doesn’t come at the expense of our best farmland.

• Stewardship of Our Water: We continue to help farmers access the funding and expertise needed for innovative practices that keep our streams clean and our farms viable. We’re especially excited to expand our work, supported by Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation, to assist farmers with the vital maintenance required to establish healthy, robust streamside plantings.

• Landowner Legacy & Succession: For many Valley families, the land is more than an asset—it’s a heritage. In 2026, we are expanding our resources to help landowners navigate legacy planning, ensuring the next generation has the tools they need to keep family farms and forests intact and productive.

• Defending the Shenandoah Rail Trail: We are working hard to ensure this 49-mile corridor remains a viable opportunity for our towns, especially in light of recent state-level proposals that threaten to alter the project’s direction. We remain committed to the community’s vision of a continuous, world-class destination trail.

The issues on our plate for 2026 are BIG, but I am entering the year with more confidence than ever. Our momentum is real, and as long as we continue to work together locally for the things we love, our Valley has a bright future.

Thank you for your partnership, and Happy New Year!

Warmly,

Kate

P.S. Your investment keeps the Valley, the Valley. If you’ve already made a gift this year, THANK YOU. If not, please consider a donation today. Whether it’s $25 or $2500, every gift helps us ensure the Valley remains a place of productive farms, clean water, and vibrant communities.