NOTE: THE OLDER PUBLICATIONS BELOW AND OUR NEWSLETTER ARCHIVES may not yet be available online.
VCC’s research and publication program goes back many years. Some of our print publications are in short supply or are printed on demand. Please contact our office concerning availability and pricing.
Vision Newsletter
Read our latest Vision newsletter from February 2012.
Vision newsletter from December 2011.
Vision newsletter from July 2011.
Vision newsletter from April 2011
Better Models for Development in the Shenandoah Valley 2010
By Sara Hollberg
This significantly updated and expanded book is based on VCC’s 1999 publication with The Conservation Fund (see below). Better Models 2010 addresses many new approaches to stormwater, green infrastructure, environmental site design, and conservation development. The book provides the basis for our Better Models Awards. The book is organized around six Principles for Better Development:
1. Conserve Natural and Scenic Assets
2. Conserve as You Grow
3. Build Livable Communities
4. Preserve Historic Resources
5. Respect Local Character in New Construction
6. Reduce the Impact of the Car
The State of the Valley (2003)
By Sara Hollberg
Designed as a follow-up to Better Models, The State of the Valley looks at how each of the localities in VCC’s service area are managing their growth, development, and conservation. The book uses extensive analysis of trends in agriculture, forestry, zoning, historic preservation, natural heritage conservation, and other indicators of community health that lets the facts speak for themselves. Intended both as a snapshot of the region and a reference for comparison of best practices between cities and counties, State of the Valley provides a wealth of information for policymakers and concerned citizens. This publication is available online, by clicking here.
Better Models for Development in the Shenandoah Valley (1999)
By Ed McMahon and Sara Hollberg
Produced in collaboration with the Conservation Fund, Better Models was the first of what is now an extensive series of books demonstating principles for better development as they can be applied to particular areas of the country. The book considers how we can conserve the best of what we have while building vibrant, liveable communities that thrive economically. Read more about the Better Models Principles. We are always interested in hearing about innovative development projects in the region that might be nominated for our annual Better Models Awards. This publication is available online by clicking here.
Middlebrook-Brownsburg Corridor
By Carole Nash, Sara Hollberg, John Hutchinson et al. (1997)
The Middlebrook-Brownsburg Corridor is a survey of the cultural and natural resources of a rural, historic corridor linking Staunton and Lexington in Augusta and Rockbridge Counties. The study showcases and describes the outstanding natural and cultural features of this area, with the goal of raising awareness of these resources among residents and government officials and to encourage locally initiated land conservation efforts. This publication is available online, by clicking here.
The McDowell Battlefield Staunton-to-Parkersburg Pike Landowner’s Guide
By Nancy Crosby and John Hutchinson
While some of the information is this publication is dated (over 10 years old), it is devoted to explaining how conservation tools can help protect the farms, forests, open space and cultural heritage of the Valley. Set in the context of how to conserve the historic Staunton-to-Parkersburg Pike, this publication is applicable to anyone looking for ideas for conserving land in their community. Contains helpful examples of Chapters include conservation easements, agricultural and forestal districts, gifts of land, and tax benefits. This publication is available online, by clicking here.
Land Use and Community Values in Augusta County, Virginia
By John Hutchinson
Does residential development pay for itself? What type of growth will protect a county’s tax base? These are questions that many counties must face as they plan for growth in the future. This is a study of the relative costs and revenues of different land uses (e.g. residential, industrial, agricultural) in Augusta County, Virginia. Although the numbers are specific to Augusta County, the results have broad implications for decision makers in many settings. This publication is available online, by clicking here.
