Saturday, November 15, 2025

Habitat Restoration Areas at Four Mile Run

The City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities (RPCA) has teamed up with the Alexandria Beautification Commission (ABC), Arlington Regional Master Naturalists, and the Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation to launch a new habitat restoration pilot in Four Mile Run Park.

For this pilot program, two sections along the park’s forest edge have been set aside as Habitat Restoration Areas (HRAs)—places where nature will be given space to thrive. The project will use both natural regeneration and hands-on planting to restore native plants, improve wildlife habitat, and strengthen the park’s ecosystem.

Four Mile Run is an important part of the Potomac River watershed. Its wetlands and wooded buffers help filter stormwater, provide corridors for birds and wildlife, and add to the park’s beauty. As nearby development grows, this project will help protect these vital natural areas for the future.

City staff and volunteers will work together to plant natives, manage invasive species, and create educational signs, so visitors can learn about the restoration process. Please come out and volunteer! Check the calendar for the regularly scheduled volunteer days, the first Saturday of the month. Look forward to seeing you in the park!