Dear Piedmont Community,

The start of autumn has blessed us with much needed rain, and we are finally starting to recover from the challenging conditions of the summer drought. Mother Nature’s change of heart could not have been timelier, with hounds now going out three days a week, the fall steeplechase races coming up, and the Piedmont Jumper Classic having just concluded. It is an exciting time of year and there are opportunities everywhere to participate in our rural traditions and enjoy our beautiful landscape.

We embraced the energy of the season by hosting an elegant cocktail party at the Upperville Horse Show Grounds to celebrate the generous landowners of the Piedmont region who make our mission possible. The occasion included a heartfelt group toast to the leadership of the Ross family, Bonnie family, and the other key community members who have worked tirelessly to protect the historic Quaker Lane corridor. We also honored members of the 1840 Club, the leadership donors whose support fuels our ability to preserve our countryside.

Our Board will not rest until our territory is entirely protected by conservation easements and we are continuing to expand citizen engagement. From youth scholarships and student kennel tours to our new publication, Financial Incentives for Conservation, we are casting a wide net to deliver on our charter by producing tangible results. I remain optimistic about the future and extend my sincere thanks to our entire network of dedicated supporters.

With best wishes and gratitude,

C. Dulany Morison
Chairman, PFHCF