VIRGINIA'S HAZEL RIVER

Thanks to those who protect our county

	Hazel River waterfall. Photo courtesy Pam Owen.

by Beverly Hunter, RappFLOW Coordinator, Fall 2005

The nomination of the Hazel River as an Exceptional State Water is a good opportunity for us to reflect upon the many ways in which our local leaders and citizens have been protecting and preserving our rural way of life and environment over time. In 1962, Rappahannock County's first subdivision ordinance was adopted, followed in 1966 by the adoption of the county's first zoning ordinance. In 1975, the county adopted an erosion and sediment control ordinance. The comprehensive plan was first adopted in 1973, and was revised five times, including the latest 2004 revision, which strongly reaffirms our county's commitment to "the careful nurturing of these natural resources."

Hazel river view. Photo courtesy Sally Mello.

Through these tools and many other local policies and procedures—such as land-use taxation, agricultural and forestal districts, land-use planning, encouragement of conservation easements and agricultural preservation, and consistent implementation of policies—our leaders and citizens have protected our streams and water quality as well as the many other aspects of our environment that we so enjoy.

It is appropriate at this time to express our appreciation to past and current leaders of our county for their diligent efforts that make it possible in 2005 to have the Virginia State Water Control Board honor our Hazel River with the Exceptional distinction. This distinction will be a strong recognition of Rappahannock County's past and present leadership.

 

 

 

 

 

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