8/2/2019 Blacksburg Stadium Woods Resolution

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RESOLUTION 5-A-12

A RESOLUTION REGARDING THE PROPOSAL TO DESTROY A PORTION OF STADIUM WOODS

IN ORDER TO CONSTRUCT AN INDOOR ATHLETIC TRAINING FACILITY FOR THE FOOTBALL,SOCCER, AND LACROSSE TEAMS

WHEREAS, the Town of Blacksburg has been designated as a Tree City USA, and has vigorously

promoted environmental sustainability and Virginia Tech has been designated as a Tree Campus USA and has

publicly committed itself to value sustainability and to engage in sound environmental stewardship; and

WHEREAS, Stadium Woods possesses characteristics of old-growth forest, essentially comprising a

self-contained forest ecosystem, populated by over fifty trees measuring greater than three feet in diameter,

many of which are over 300 years of age, and is seasonally inhabited by over 80 species of birds, many of

which are neo-tropical migrants, not found in urbanized landscapes; and

WHEREAS, the 2009 Virginia Tech Master Plan Amendment designates Stadium Woods as an

environmental greenway, thus as a significant reservation of lands, waterways, tree stands, andcultural landmarks for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Stadium Woods is used by Virginia Tech faculty for classes and research, by K-12

students and adult learners for environmental education, and by students, faculty, staff, visitors, and area

residents for outdoor recreation and leisure; and

WHEREAS, Stadium Woods enhances the aesthetics and character of the Lane Stadium area and

nearby Blacksburg neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, Stadium Woods is important for community storm water mitigation through canopy

interception and forest soil detention, and provides soil erosion control through vegetative cover and plant

root systems; and

WHEREAS, Stadium Woods is a living reminder of the natural history of the Virginia Tech campus,

the Town of Blacksburg, and the region; and

WHEREAS, the long-term utility and health of Stadium Woods will be negatively i mpacted by

this building project, and the unique character and benefits of Stadium Woods will be irreparably harmed

by the proposed building project;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Council of Blacksburg asks the Virginia Tech

administration t o work to find a more suitable location for this facility;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Council o f Blacksburg asks the Virginia Tech

administration to begin the process of formally designating Stadium Woods as a permanently protected site.

_____________________________________

Mayor

ATTEST:

________________________________________

Town Clerk

Date of Adoption: ________________________