September 2024

Henrico’s Environmental Action Resource Team (H.E.A.R.T.) pledges to reduce the impact of Henrico County General Government and Henrico Schools on the environment.

Henrico's Environmental Action Resource Team (H.E.A.R.T.) consists of representatives from Henrico County government agencies dedicated to pushing forward county efforts to promote sustainability, preserve natural resources, beautify the community and protect the environment. We serve as a think tank for the county’s environmental initiatives and aim to streamline such programs. This committee was established by the Board of Supervisors and the County Manager in December of 2022.

Stormwater Pollution & Clean Waterways

Henrico County employees, and some creative volunteers, joined together to “Paint Out Pollution.” Stencil artwork of Virginia native wildlife, who’s habitat is the James River, were spray painted on storm drains at the Eastern Recreation Center, Henrico Theater, Glover Park, Short Pump Park and the Tuckahoe Area Library.

The James River Association created this hands-on program to educate community members about stormwater pollution and promote clean waterways.

When it rains, polluted stormwater runoff from driveways, streets and parking lots can be a significant source of pollution that flows directly into the James River and its tributaries. This runoff can contain sediment, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, oil, grease and bacteria from pet waste from our yards. It can adversely impact the health of the James River and it threatens the health of people and wildlife. Help keep our rivers clean by implementing river-friendly conservation practices at home.

New Market Heights Trail

Henrico continues planning for the New Market Heights nature and historical trail system. This area has significant historical value including Native American culture and the Civil War.

As part of this effort, H.E.A.R.T. and Henrico County are working to open Civil War sites previously inaccessible to the public. This will allow visitors to experience the historical sites while preserving the integrity of these hallowed grounds.

Walk or bike the 3.4-mile trail that will include wetlands, forests and streams. Learn about history and nature while discovering the importance of preserving our natural resources.

Lake Hening Riparian Buffer Update

The Lake Hening riparian buffer tree project was evaluated, and the results indicate an impressive 92% survival rate, that’s about 180 new trees thriving in a previously denuded slope with sparse grass coverage. Some of the tree seedlings have already grown a couple of feet above their tree protection tubes indicating how vigorously they have grown!

Stewart’s Adventure Club

Gather the young ones and get ready to experience the great outdoors. H.E.A.R.T.'s backpack program is aimed at getting the kiddos outside to explore Henrico's parks by developing an appreciation of nature, practicing stewardship, learning and benefiting from the natural environment.

The Stewart’s Adventure Club backpacks will be available for check out at county recreation centers. Contents of the backpacks will include binoculars, field guides, grabbers and doggie bags, just to name a few. A cinch sac with a journal, colored pencils, coloring pages and bug catcher magnifier will be included to take home to continue the adventures.

Kids will be able to sign up during the spring break 2025 kick-off in April.

Bike Month 2025

Plans are underway to celebrate Bike Month in May 2025. A community bike ride along the Capital Trail and a concluding event at Dorey Park are just part of the effort to get residents outdoors and to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Upcoming Events

SEPTEMBER 14

OCTOBER 5

OCTOBER 19

H.E.A.R.T. Website