Reston’s forests face serious challenges, as highlighted in the recent 2024 State of the Environment Report (RASER) released by the Reston Association. The report reveals that invasive species, a high deer population, and climate change are making the health of Reston’s urban forests “fair” at best.
The report is the work of dedicated volunteers and Reston Association staff. It emphasizes the importance of trees, stating that nearly 50% of Reston is covered by forests, which support local wildlife and offer numerous ecological benefits. Maintaining these trees is crucial for their benefits to be realized.
However, invasive plants have taken over a significant portion of the forests. Pests like the spongy moth and the emerald ash borer are causing severe damage. Over the past decade, the emerald ash borer has decimated native ash trees, while older oak trees are also declining due to climate extremes.
Currently, the Reston Association employs professional arborists and organizes volunteer efforts to remove invasive plants. They’re also working on a new urban forest management plan, which includes an inventory of the tree canopy and tree species starting this year.
The RASER report also reviewed other environmental factors, including stormwater management, which is rated as “poor.” Outdated stormwater systems struggle to handle increased runoff, leading to erosion and pollution in local lakes. The report outlines how many systems were built under less strict regulations, leading to today’s challenges.
Another major concern is climate change, which affects Reston in various ways. The community’s response to this threat has been rated “poor,” with more aggressive initiatives recently emerging. For example, Reston is part of the Resilient Fairfax Community Advisory Group, which focuses on climate adaptation and mitigation.
In encouraging news, residents are increasingly adopting renewable energy projects. Since 2017, 169 homes and eight businesses have installed solar panels. Plus, Reston boasts over 200 public electric vehicle charging ports, supporting the shift towards sustainable transportation.
Alongside these initiatives, the report points out other pressing issues, including non-native invasive species, over-populated deer, challenges in greening infrastructure, and limited recycling options. These challenges are not unique to Reston but are common in growing urban areas across the United States.
As Mike Reynolds, the Director of Environmental Resources, noted, the Reston Association is committed to enhancing environmental stewardship. They’re eager for community engagement in shaping a sustainable future for Reston.
For a deeper understanding of Reston’s environmental conditions and plans, you can check the full report [here](https://www.reston.org/DocumentCenter/View/2569/RASER-2024-Final-PDF). It’s essential for community members to stay informed and participate in future sustainability efforts.
