NRSWCD Welcomes You to New River Hill Farm & Forest
Vision:
"New River Hill Farm has a vision to inspire agricultural aspirations for generations of south-western Virginia's youth. We will assist them in developing their skills in becoming independent learners who rely on their strength and abilities."
Mission:
"Our mission is to provide a hands-on learning experience that will encourage and cultivate area youth to develop curiosity for our natural resources. New River Hill Farm will promote and use sustainable multifunctional agriculture and silviculture that provides educational opportunities for beginning and established farmers, particularly to the youth of south-western Virginia, while conserving natural resources. Our vision and mission reflect our fundamental belief that all people belong and deserve fairness, justice, and inclusivity."
In 2012, O.D. Philen Jr. saw a need to convey a tract of land of 131.04 acres, more or less, into New River Hill Farm Trust to be operated in perpetuity by the New River Soil and Water Conservation District for agricultural purposes. Mr. Philen also wanted to protect the integrity of the farm as farm use and its scenic qualities, wildlife habitat, plants and timber, water resources and water quality and to preserve the agricultural land. In this conveyance, Mr. Philen hopes to create an agricultural educational experience unlike any other in Virginia. The Farm is to be maintained as a working farm that will provide a unique hands-on experience to local and regional youth as well as the general public of Southwestern Virginia.
The property owned by O.D. Philen Jr. is identified as the New River Hill Education Farm and is located in the head of waters of Moore Creek, a tributary of the New River, in Grayson County, Virginia. The property was formed from parts of the Fred Adams Sr. estate (purchased in 1979 and1980) and the farm of Coy Diamond (purchased in 1982). About fifteen acres were traded acre for acre with the Glen Dixon estate for person interests and to facilitate fencing of the northwestern property boundary.
A partnership of professionals developed recommendations using current technology, science, and experience to ensure the best protection and management of all resources found on the properties. Meeting the wishes of O.D. Philen Jr. is the ultimate goal of the New River Hill Education Farm.