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Board asks state to evaluate Corrotoman River for Virginia Scenic River designation
Summary
DCR staff explained the Scenic Rivers program and the scoring process (375 points total; 214 minimum), and the board authorized county administration to request a DCR desktop and field evaluation of the eastern and western branches of the Corrotoman River to determine eligibility for state scenic river designation.
Representatives from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation explained how the state Scenic Rivers program works and what it does — and does not — do. David Bridal (DCR) said designation is "an act of the General Assembly" and noted the program seeks stretches with superior natural, scenic, historic and recreational assets; DCR project manager Josh Bateman detailed a quantitative scoring system (375 possible points with a 214 minimum threshold) plus two qualitative aesthetics criteria that are evaluated by a local paddling panel.
DCR staff explained that designation is largely recognition, not a land‑use regulatory regime, but that it can increase competitiveness for grants administered by DCR and other state programs. After questions about process and timing, a supervisor moved to authorize county administration to request a DCR study of the eastern and western branches of the Corrotoman River; the motion passed and staff will work with DCR on desktop analysis, field evaluation and stakeholder group formation.
