*Created by our founding board of directors on August 26, 2018

Promote land use and transportation policies that respect the Valley’s natural and cultural resources and traditional communities

• Encourage policies and practices that maintain farm and forest land, river corridors, and historic battlefields.
• Work collaboratively with local governments and communities to encourage growth in appropriate locations supported by adequate infrastructure.
• Serve as a technical resource on complex land use policies such as renewable energy siting and energy transmission.
• Advocate for sensible local transportation plans and targeted approaches for improvements to Interstate 81.

Foster land and water conservation through projects and programs that ensure clean and plentiful water, protected farm and forest land and preserved cultural resources

• Encourage the increased use of voluntary conservation easements and purchases from willing sellers to protect farmland, forestland, cultural resources, and river and stream corridors.
• Promote agricultural and stormwater best management practices to successfully implement regional water quality and quantity goals.
• Advocate for needed funding at the local, state, and federal levels for agricultural best management practices, stormwater management, and land protection.

Support economic development that is in keeping with the Valley’s unique character and resources

• Encourage the future economic viability of agriculture by exploring innovative approaches and building connections between farmers and local markets.
• Advance tourism initiatives that capitalize on the Valley’s natural and cultural resources including outdoor recreation, agritourism, and historic tourism.

Mobilize citizens on regional issues of importance

• Provide resources and leadership to communities responding to projects that would enhance or diminish the quality of life in our region.
• Monitor and advocate for conservation-oriented management of our public lands, including George Washington National Forest, Shenandoah National Park, and state-held conservation lands.

Cultivate an active, educated, and informed public

• Educate and inspire an understanding and appreciation of the extraordinary natural and cultural resources of our region.
• Foster engagement in the protection of our land, water, and community resources.