What's New in Natural Resources?
ALX Herbarium Hunt
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The ALX Herbarium Hunt Is Happening This September! Can You Solve the Plant Mystery?
Did You Know?
Did you know the City of Alexandria’s Herbarium (AVCH) contains more than 4,000 pressed plant specimens collected for conservation & natural history? Explore our free digital archive, featuring stunning high-quality scans of native & invasive plants found right here in Northern Virginia.
Become a Plant Detective in Alexandria Parks
Join the hunt this September!
Each week, we’ll post a mystery herbarium specimen on our social media accounts without its name. Your mission? Identify it and track it down in one of Alexandria’s parks. Follow the steps outlined in the next box and crack the case!
Follow the Clues
- Study the mystery plant specimen
- Use the AVCH catalog number & SERNEC Quick Search to uncover its identity
- Explore iNaturalist to find where the plant grows in Alexandria
- Visit a City park & search for the “Plant of Interest”
- Snap a photo, follow us on socials & share your guess using #AlxHerbariumHunt
Win Prizes
Weekly Prize Raffle: Correct answers each week will be entered to win a Prize of the Week, available for pickup at Buddie Ford Nature Center.
Grand Prize Drawing: Every participant becomes eligible to win a plant press kit, so you can start your very own collection of pressed plants & flowers!
Natural Resources in Alexandria
What are natural resources?
Natural resources encompass all things that make up the natural landscape, which includes land, plants, wildlife, biota, air, water, groundwater, drinking water supplies, and other such resources. Alexandria harbors a rich diversity of habitats and wildlife within its 15.5 sq miles.
Wildlife
Aquatic and terrestrial species can pollinate flowers, clean water, and bring joy to see.
Vegetation
Plants such as grasses, trees, and vines make up our forests, meadows, and wetlands.
Land
The soil, rocks, and landscape make up our parks, hiking trails, and scenic views.
Water
Freshwater and groundwater reserves support ecosystems and communities.
Air
Clean air supports community health and helps regulate climate.
Energy
Sunlight provides energy through solar panels.
Protecting and Preserving Our Natural Spaces
Learn how climate change is impacting Alexandria’s parks and natural areas, including heat, flooding, wildlife, and plant health. This overview explains the challenges facing local ecosystems and highlights how healthy natural spaces help the community adapt and stay resilient.
Protecting Our Natural Landscape
The program works to preserve Alexandria’s native landscape and biodiversity for current and future generations. Natural resource management supports the protection, conservation, and restoration of these natural spaces.
Managing and Improving Natural Areas
Staff inventory natural resources across parks, open spaces, wetlands, and waterways, while offering environmental guidance and best management practices to care for natural areas.
Restoration, Stewardship, and Education
The Natural Resource team creates pilot programs, leads nonnative invasive plant control efforts, and provides ecological programs that inspire community education and stewardship.
Your Guide to Natural Resources in Alexandria
Online Resources
Learn More
In addition to Natural Resources, you may find exciting environmentally focused information at:
Helpful Links
Contact Us
For questions, contact:
Katrina Napora
Natural Resources Manager
katrina.napora@alexandriava.gov
Raychel Frye
Natural Resources Manager
raychel.frye@alexandriava.gov
Oscar Mendoza
Division Chief
oscar.mendoza@alexandriava.gov
View manager bios or visit the leadership page for program oversight details.
