NVBA NEWS BLOG
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Historic River Farm Property in Peril
River Farm, a historic 25-acre property on the Potomac River, may be sold to private developers. The American Horticultural Society (AHA), the owner of the property, has issued a request for proposals to purchase the property to create an endowment for the organization.
Photo: River Farm
River Farm, a historic 25-acre property on the Potomac River, may be sold to private developers. The American Horticultural Society (AHA), the owner of the property, has issued a request for proposals to purchase the property to create an endowment for the organization.
River Farm includes the historic Manor House, extensive gardens and a four-acre meadow of native plants. Bald eagles frequent Virginia's Potomac River shoreline and observers have documented a number of nests in the area. Despite agreeing with Enid Haupt, who donated the funds to purchase the property and keep it open to the public, the AHA has extended its request for proposals to developers and private parties. AHA’s website has more information on River Farm’s history and gardens.
Virginia Senators Scott Surovell and Adam Ebbin, Delegate Paul Krizek and Fairfax County Supervisor Dan Storck and Chair Jeff McKay are coordinating efforts to keep River Farm open to the public. You can learn more about that effort and sign a petition urging the preservation of River Farm for public use here.