Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

Happy Earth Month! With the number of activities as high as the pollen count, Virginia has no lack of fun, outdoor experiences to offer this season. Today, we’re taking a quick break from our typical coverage to welcome the warmth and encourage sustainability in our beautiful environment. We hope you enjoy, and we’re so glad you’re here! 

Here’s what you need to know: Can’t make it to DC this spring to see the cherry blossoms? Fear not—the beautiful pink blooms are budding in several parts of the commonwealth, and we’ve got all you need to know to be able to enjoy the sight.

Our top picks:

• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
  Location: Richmond
  Admission to the garden is required. At the garden, you can see a variety of blooms, including flowers like daffodils, tulips, Virginia bluebells, and, of course, cherry blossoms. There’s even a special Cherry Tree Walkway to enjoy.

• Breaux Vineyards
  Location: Purcellville
  Indulge in spectacular foods or drinks from a vast menu, like the Muffuletta panini, featuring ham, mortadella, salami, provolone, and olive tapenade. Enjoy a glass of wine while participating in a photo contest showcasing the vineyard’s cherry blossom trees.

• Cherry Blossom Festival in Red Wing Park 1
  Location: Virginia Beach
  This park is free and open to the public; the location’s Cherry Blossom Festival continues on Apr. 5. The festival offers “a week-long immersion into Japanese culture through diverse programs including garden tours, cultural performances, martial arts demos, and children’s activities,” according to the festival announcement.

Want more blooms? We’ve got info about several Virginia cherry blossom sightings at our link below. 

Question of the Week: What’s your favorite thing to do outdoors in Virginia? Let me know at amie@couriernewsroom.com.

Virginia is making big changes in its move toward clean energy. Both national and local projects are introducing more sustainable and affordable energy for Virginia households, schools, and businesses. We’re outlining some of the most helpful policies and nonprofits aiming to make Virginia environmentally friendly.

Solar for All

Part of the $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Solar for All program works to expand the use of solar energy throughout the country. Solar for All’s mission is to bring solar power to low-income communities and households. By using solar energy, Virginian households could save $400 in energy bills a year, which would benefit many who struggle financially throughout the state. 

Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind

With approval from the Biden administration, Dominion Energy began construction of the largest wind-powered energy project in the country. The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project could be the future of clean energy, with 176 wind turbines being constructed off the coast of Virginia Beach. These turbines will power up to 660,000 homes, create hundreds of new jobs for the area, boost the local economy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the state.

Rural Energy for America Project

Virginia is participating in a nationwide effort to create sustainable energy for farms. The mission of the Rural Energy for America Project is to lower energy bills, generate new income opportunities, and create more jobs for rural communities by introducing clean energy. The USDA is spearheading this project, and $157 million in funding is helping to bring wind, solar, and other sustainable energy practices to Virginia farms. 

Want to learn more? We’re highlighting seven of the most impactful clean energy programs in the commonwealth at the link below. 

• We’ve felt breezes of warmer weather drawing near—and with the whispers of spring in the air, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the wonders of our beautiful commonwealth. From visiting floral fields to taking a quick dip in a picturesque waterfall, Virginia has no lack of excitement when it comes to unique springtime activities (READ MORE HERE).

• With the arrival of whispy breezes and vibrant blooms, there’s no denying that spring is here. To make the most out of the season this year, add some of these six quintessential Virginia activities to your springtime bucket list—from kayaking on the James River to enjoying a picnic at a state park (READ MORE HERE).

• Days are getting longer, and before you know it, we’ll be soaking up all kinds of vitamin D—especially with the return of routine yard work. If you’re ready to get your lawn in shape, these tips are for you (READ MORE HERE). 

You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:
Courier Newsroom
611 Pennsylvania Ave SE
Washington, DC 20003-4303