Kaine visits Crow’s Nest

By Tracy Bell

Published: May 1, 2008

Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine arrived by helicopter Thursday morning. He said it was the first time he’d ever visited Stafford County’s Crow’s Nest peninsula.

Despite staying away until now, Kaine was sure of the land’s importance.

“Crow’s Nest is a tremendously significant piece of property and its purchase will preserve it for generations to come,” Kaine said at a ceremony celebrating acquisition of the property. “We celebrate an outstanding partnership that made that happen.”

Kaine, along with current and former members of the Stafford County Board of Supervisors, state and local officials, conservation and citizens’ organizations, were on hand to rejoice in the knowledge that 1,770 acres of waterfront property known as Crow’s Nest has been acquired.

Last December, supervisors voted to enter into an agreement to purchase 1,770 acres of the property for $19 million and to put a 2-year option on an additional 1,100 acres.

Supervisor Paul Milde, who leads the district where Crow’s Nest lies, said, “For many of us, this will be our greatest legacy. I am truly honored to be a part of this historic day.”

Board Chairman George Schwartz, quoting William Blake, said, “Great things are done when men and mountains meet.”

Virginia Natural Preserves provide access to the public for activities such as hiking, wildlife observation and canoeing. The preserve area at Crow’s Nest will remain closed until funding for staffing is in place and improvements are made, according to a county press release.

In wrapping up his speech, Kaine noted that many people to come will now be able to be able to enjoy Crow’s Nest with the same “wonder and awe” that we can today.

“The generations to come will thank us for this effort,” he said.

Tracy Bell is the managing editor of Media General’s Stafford County Sun.