Blackwater Ecological Preserve

The Blackwater Ecological Preserve spans 319 acres of pine forests, featuring flatwoods of longleaf pine and turkey oak alongside distinctive pine savannas.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation and Old Dominion University manage this protected area, establishing specific conservation protocols for the native plant communities.

Scientists from Old Dominion University conduct research at the preserve to study the survival patterns of longleaf pine populations in their natural habitat.

Visitors must contact Old Dominion University's Department of Biology at 757-683-3595 to arrange access to the preserve before arriving at the site.

This location marks the northernmost natural occurrence of longleaf pine savanna in the United States, containing over twelve elements of Virginia's natural heritage.

Location: Virginia

Operator: VA Department of Conservation and Recreation; Old Dominion University

Website: https://dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/natural-area-preserves/blackwater

GPS coordinates: 36.81470,-76.85220

Latest update: April 2, 2025 15:13