MANASSAS — (Press Release) To protect and restore native vegetation, promote healthy and diverse forests and protect historic landscapes, Manassas National Battlefield Park will implement previously approved white-tailed deer management plans for the first time.
The window for deer population reduction at the park is January 2 through March 15, 2019.
Extensive safety measures will be in place during operations, which will take place at night when the park is closed. Biologists, who are also highly trained firearms experts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will work under the direction of National Park Service (NPS) natural resource management specialists and in coordination with park law enforcement rangers to conduct reduction actions safely and effectively.
The NPS will donate all suitable venison to local food banks after the deer are professionally processed and tested for chronic wasting disease. Overabundant deer populations damage plants and eat nearly all the tree seedlings, compromising the ability of forests to sustain themselves.
This prevents forest regeneration and destroys smaller trees and shrubs, which provide critical habitat for native birds and other wildlife. Extensive damage from deer at Manassas National Battlefield Park has also adversely impacted the park’s historic landscape.
Prompted by a marked decline in forest regeneration, Manassas National Battlefield Park initiated a public process to create a plan, finalized in 2014, which calls for reducing the deer population to a level that will support long-term protection and restoration of native plants and promote a healthy and diverse forest.
The NPS will continue to monitor how well plants are growing with fewer deer, and the findings will help inform future deer management actions. Deer management has produced positive results at several area national parks including Gettysburg National Military Park (Pa.) and Catoctin Mountain Park (Md.). Catoctin has actively worked to reduce deer populations in the park since 2010 and has seen more than a 10-fold increase in seedling density.
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The Stafford County Simply Perfect Wedding Expo is coming up on February 8, 2025, at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Fredericksburg! This event is a must for couples planning their big day, featuring top wedding vendors, venues, florists, caterers, photographers, and more—all in one place.
If you’re a wedding professional, vendor opportunities are available, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to connect with engaged couples ready to plan their special day!
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Prince William County residents must contact the Sheriff’s Office by April 4, 2025, to schedule an appointment with Sheriff Hill for the recommendation. The deadline to submit the online application and required documents is May 1, 2025. More details and application materials are available on the VSI website.
Prince William County has scrapped its $300 million Route 28 Bypass project, leaving residents and officials debating the next steps for traffic relief. The project, which would have taken 70 homes, faced rising costs, land acquisition hurdles, and a lack of Fairfax County support. Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis Younger criticized the decision, saying her city is “stuck in the middle.” Meanwhile, State Sen. Danica Roem is pushing forward with $62.5 million in intersection improvements. A town hall on Route 28’s future will be held Feb. 26 at Manassas Park City Hall. Read more about what’s next for local transportation.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
