Like many urbanizing areas, Luray, Virginia, has become increasingly developed at the expense of recreational space, wildlife habitat, and water quality. In addition to disconnecting habitat, increased development means more stormwater runoff and sedimentation in the region’s waterways, which include Hawksbill Creek.

On March 16, 2002, about 30 volunteers assisted VDOF staff in planting 550 trees and shrubs along Hawksbill Creek. After a short demonstration on proper planting techniques and tree tube installation, volunteers diligently planted the vegetation alongside an existing 1/2-mile trail that runs from the park-and-ride at U.S. 211 and 340 to the wooden ramp at Main Street. The plantings will add numerous benefits to this linear park, including recreational opportunities for walkers, joggers, bikers, fishermen, and wildlife viewers.

The environmental benefits are numerous as well. The riparian forest buffer will provide wildlife habitat for a wide variety of species and increase wildlife viewing opportunities. The band of trees will also help to filter some of the pollutants contained in stormwater runoff, which will produce a healthier stream. In addition, fish species will benefit from the cooler stream due to an increase in the amount of tree cover and shade. Park users will also appreciate the added tree cover, especially during the hot summer months.

The Luray Hawksbill Greenway project is just one of ten CREP sites in Virginia that are being monitored to identify the benefits of the CREP program. Monitoring activities include studying planting survival, natural regeneration, biological and chemical factors, temperature, and stream morphology.