Nature FAQs
Nature Q&A
General
What was the land like before Reston was built?
Since the Northern Neck Proprietary Land Grant was awarded to seven loyalists by Charles II of England in 1647, agriculture and commerce have lured people to the area known as Reston. The land was once part of the original holdings of Lord Fairfax and has changed hands many times. Farming, dairy and cattle operations, logging, stone quarrying, a bourbon distillery, a resort, and even another planned town have been part of Reston's past. When Robert E. Simon, Jr. purchased the land from A. Smith Bowman in 1961, it was half-wooded and half in open fields traversed by clear running streams. Presently, the 11.5 square miles of land is home to over 60,000 residents who live, work and play in Reston.
Why do Reston’s natural areas require maintenance?
Our natural areas are fragmented into relatively small parcels that suffer the abuses of adjacent development. Often, they are encroached on by mowing, dumping of yard debris, or the spread of invasive plant species. Natural areas are routinely inspected for public safety, erosion issues and hazardous trees. Meadows are mowed annually and periodically reseeded to support biodiversity.
Can I blow leaves or move woody yard debris into the natural area near my home?
No, this action is considered “dumping”, and it is against state and county laws as well as Reston Association guidelines. There are better alternatives. Fairfax County requires trash haulers to pick up yard debris such as leaves in paper bags as well as small branches in bundles or containers. This material is composted and chipped. Ask your trash hauler for its yard debris schedule. Woody debris can also be taken to RA's monthly brush chipping service. Drop-off locations and dates are listed in the RA Activities Guide.
Are the woods owned by Reston Association protected from future development?
Reston Association’s wooded areas are part of Reston’s designated open space. In order for the land to be developed, a development plan amendment (similar to a zoning change) would have to be approved by the Fairfax County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors after public hearings on the matter. Also, a referendum of the members is required for the sale of RA property. Much of RA's property is subject to easements that further restrict development possibilities.
Can I camp in Reston natural areas?
No, overnight camping and fires are not allowed in the natural areas, but camping is allowed in nearby Lake Fairfax Park.
Lakes, Ponds & Streams
Where does water and debris that washes into storm sewers go?
Our storm drains prevent flooding of roads and neighborhoods by carrying rain and snowmelt away from streets and sidewalks. Storm drains connect directly to streams that flow into our lakes and ultimately to the Chesapeake Bay. Litter, pet waste, motor oil, paint and other materials dumped or washed into storm drains pollute our watershed.
Is swimming allowed in the lakes?
No, swimming is not allowed in any of the lakes due to safety concerns. Our lakes are man-made stormwater retention basins that receive unfiltered, untreated runoff from the community that contains many contaminants such as oil, pet waste and fertilizers. Water quality is not monitored or maintained for public swimming. Also, our lakes get quite deep with some areas reaching depths of 20 feet. Lifeguards are not present on any of our lakes. Each year, Reston hosts a small number of competitive events that include a lake swim. Water quality testing is done before these events, and emergency personnel are on hand to assist swimmers as needed.
Why can’t I feed the geese and ducks on the lakes?
Large numbers of Canada Geese no longer migrate through our area but instead have become year-round residents that congregate around our lakes and grassy areas. Along with Fairfax County, we are working to control the population. Overpopulation of geese causes environmental impacts as well as public safety and health concerns. Geese damage shoreline vegetation and grassy areas. Often , they act aggressively towards other birds and people, and their nutrient-rich droppings harm water quality. Bread and other human food provide poor nutrition for waterfowl, encourages aggression, increases the spread of disease, and further discourages normal migration.
Can I use a boat on the lake near my house?
Yes, members can get a free access permit (sticker) to put on hand-carried boats such as kayaks and canoes. Each lake has member access points. Mooring permits are required for pontoon and deck boats. No gas motors are allowed on RA lakes, but electric motors are allowed. Contact 703 435 6530 for more information.
Are there boat rentals on Reston's lakes?
Yes, boats can be rented at Lake Anne Plaza, including kayaks and pedal boats. Rental are available from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, Friday 3-7 p.m. and 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The hourly fee is $15/boat for RA members and $20/boat for non-members. Boat operators must be at least 16 years of age, and waivers must be signed by an adult. Pets are not allowed in the boats. Swimming is not allowed in the lakes. Contact RAboatrentals@reston.org.
Is fishing allowed on Reston's lakes, ponds and streams?
Yes, fishing is allowed. Anyone over the age of 16 must have a freshwater fishing license, which can be obtained online at gooutdoorsvirginia.com. The lakes are stocked with several species of game fish including largemouth bass and channel catfish. Please release grass carp and very large bass. The grass carp help to control aquatic plant growth, and the larger sized bass are important in maintaining a healthy balance of fish in the lake.
How have streams in Reston been restored?
Reston Association partnered with Wetland Studies and Solutions, Inc. and the Northern Virginia Stream Restoration Bank to restore 14 miles of streams in Reston. Steep, actively eroding banks, caused by increased runoff from impervious surfaces, were prevalent throughout the stream valleys. The multi-year stream restoration project began in 2008. It utilized natural channel design techniques to restore degraded streams. The stream mitigation bank allowed public and private entities to purchase mitigation "credits" for impacts from development activities. This funding source has enabled the streams to be restored at no cost to homeowners or the Association. Reston Association and Wetland Studies continue to monitor the streams and project areas.
Nature Center
Where is the Walker Nature Center and what goes on there?
The Walker Nature Center is located at 11450 Glade Dr. This forested, 72-acre site features two streams, demonstration gardens, and borders 44-acre Lake Audubon. Visitors can hike a network of trails, picnic in the pavilion, and learn from a series of outdoor interpretive signs. There is free parking and restroom facilities available year-round. The Nature Center conducts outdoor programs and special events for all ages as well as classes and workshops inside its education building, Nature House.
Are nature programs offered through Reston Association?
Yes, RA’s Walker Nature Center offers a variety of nature programs for all ages from preschool programs and elementary school field trips to family campfires and adult classes/workshops. The Nature Center also hosts summer camps and a number of popular special events such as Spring Festival, the Fairy Festival, the Halloween House & Trail, and Holiday Greetings.
What is Nature House?
Nature House is the education building, located at the Walker Nature Center. Nature House is staffed by Reston Association naturalists and trained volunteers. Its standard hours are Monday and Wednesday-Friday 9:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m., and Sunday 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Visitors can observe some up-close wildlife, read in the nature library, watch birds at the feeders, and interact with an assortment of natural history objects.
Nature House is LEED Gold certified by the U.S. Green Building Council for its ecofriendly design and construction. It was built in 2009 through private and corporate donations that were part of a community-wide capital campaign led by Friends of Reston, RA’s supporting 501(c)(3) corporation.
Are bird walks offered in Reston?
Yes, the Walker Nature Center coordinates monthly bird walks and two annual bird counts for adults. Experienced birders volunteer to lead the free walks. Dates and times are listed in the RA Activities Guide, Branching Out and online on WebTrac.
Plant Life
What does Reston’s Tree City USA designation mean?
Reston is a community that it committed to protecting its trees. Its Tree City USA designation has been awarded each year since 1994 by the National Arbor Day Foundation. To qualify, a community must meet four standards that indicate a viable tree management plan and program. It must have a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance.
How old are the forests in Reston?
Reston's forest is predominantly made up of second growth oak, hickory and tulip poplar trees. Much of the land that we know as Reston was cleared for farming and logging activities between the 1800's and mid-1900's. The oldest trees are around 100 years old.
How can I protect the plants in my yard from the deer?
There are several products available at lawn and garden centers that may deter deer from eating your plants. These include sprays such as Deer Off and Liquid Fence and pellets such as Milorganite. For best results, reapply these treatments on a regular basis, especially after periods with lots of rain. When choosing new plants, look for deer resistant plants.
How do I rent a garden plot?
Reston's garden plots are very popular, so you might spend a season on the waiting list. Once you have a plot, you can renew your contract for that space on an annual basis. Plot rentals range from $20 to $120, depending on their size. Three of the four garden plot locations are organic, meaning no pesticides or herbicides are allowed. Contact gardenplots@reston.org.
Can I compost in my yard?
Yes, composting is encouraged. Leaves, grass clippings, pine needles and vegetable scraps can be turned into rich topsoil, keeping organic material out of the waste stream. Compost bins must conform to RA Design Guidelines that vary according to the size and location of the bins. Bins must be constructed of durable materials and screened from the view of neighbors and the street. They must be located in the rear of your yard. Please contact your Covenant’s Advisor for more information at 703 435 6530.
Trails & Pathways
What are those posts along the trail or behind my house?
Rectangular, gray posts are used as property line markers between homeowner or cluster owned property and Reston Association open space property. Older posts are made of concrete. Newer posts are made of recycled lumber. A blue square or plaque with “RA” on it will face the RA land.
Who maintains the pathways and sidewalks in Reston?
Reston Association maintains 55 miles of paved pathways and natural surface trails throughout Reston. Sidewalks are maintained by clusters along roads maintained by clusters or by VDOT along main, state-controlled roads. Very few sections of sidewalk are part of the RA pathway system.
What are the rules for using Reston's pathways and natural areas?
Please stay on established trails and pathways.
Always keep pets on a leash and pick up their waste.
Leave all plants and animals where you find them.
Deposit litter in trash cans or recycling containers or carry it out with you.
Use extreme caution with lit cigarettes or matches. Do not smoke with 50 feet of a recreation area, community building or pavilion.
Is there a leash law and pooper-scooper law in Reston?
Yes, Fairfax County has a leash law and requires pet owners to pick-up after their pets. RA rules also require these practices. Dog bags called “Mutt Mitts" and waste receptacles are provided along the pathways for your convenience. Failure to obey these laws can result in fines. To report loose dogs, contact Fairfax County Animal Control at 703 691 2131.
Trash & Recycling
Who picks up the trash in Reston?
Reston Association picks up trash at our recreational facilities, community buildings and from cans along the pathways. RA’s contract with the Virginia Department of Transportation also allows us to pick up trash before each roadway mowing cycle. Three private trash companies pick up trash on a contract basis with single family homeowners, condo associations, apartment buildings and clusters. Contact your management or cluster board for details. If you don't know how to contact them, call RA at 703 435 6530.
How does recycling work in Reston?
Each building, cluster or individual homeowner contracts with a trash hauler for recycling services. Check with your manager, cluster board or trash hauler to see what you may recycle and how it should be prepared for collection. For more information, visit the Fairfax County website www.fairfaxcounty.gov/publicworks/recycling-and-trash.
Volunteers
Can I volunteer to help Reston’s environment?
Yes, there are many opportunities to volunteer for the environment. Our Habitat Heroes remove invasive plants such as English ivy and Japanese honeysuckle from our natural areas. They also plant native trees and wildflowers to replace invasives. Watershed volunteers monitor the health of our streams and participate in seasonal clean-up activities. Citizen scientists participate in wildlife counts and Reston’s Biodiversity Project in iNaturalist. Scouts work with RA staff on group and individual projects. Event volunteers help at nature programs and festivals. Contact the Volunteer Reston Manager, Ha Brock at 703 435 7986 or habrock@reston.org. Visit www.reston.org/volunteer-reston to learn more or fill out an application.
What is the Adopt-a-Spot program?
Individuals, families and organizations volunteer to remove litter from designated areas of parkland or sections along RA’s paths on a regular basis. A recognition sign is put up at their location. Contact the Volunteer Reston Manager at habrock@reston.org to learn more.
What are the volunteers in the stream with the big nets doing?
Volunteers monitor several locations in Reston’s streams each season by counting and identifying the macroinvertebrates (aka bugs) in the water. They also report on whether the bugs are pollution-tolerant species. A high percentage of pollution intolerant species indicates a healthy stream. Information is shared with the Izaak Walton League’s Save Our Streams program. For more information, contact Ha Brock at habrock@reston.org.
Wildlife
I found a baby bird in my yard. What should I do?
If the bird is uninjured but does not have feathers, try to find its nest and put it back inside of it. If you cannot find the nest, make a substitute nest in a small container lined with something soft, and place it in a nearby bush or tree. The parents will take care of their baby.
If the bird is feathered, uninjured and hopping on the ground, leave it alone. This is normal behavior for a young fledgling. Its parents will take care of it. Keep cats, dogs and people from disturbing it.
If you find an injured bird (bleeding, shivering, broken wing, etc.) or if parents do not return to after many hours, place the bird in a container such as a small cardboard box and call the Wildlife Rescue League at 703 440 0800. A licensed wildlife rehabilitator will return your call. Do not attempt to give the bird any food or water. It is unlawful and unwise to try to care for the bird yourself.
Are there venomous snakes in Reston?
The Copperhead is the only venomous snake species in Reston. Copperheads have a distinctive hourglass pattern, a triangular head and a vertical pupil like a cat. Do not approach Copperheads. Young Copperheads have a bright yellow tail. To make an identification, use a camera with a zoom. If bitten, stay calm and seek medical attention. Copperhead venom is rarely fatal. Snakes are a beneficial part of our ecosystem, helping to control rodent and insect populations.
Who do I call about dead animals on the road?
If you see a dead animal on the road, please notify VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation). If you live south of the toll road, call 703 383 2753, and if you live north of the toll road, call 703 438 3407.
How can I get rid of wildlife in my attic or under my deck/shed?
Exclusion is the best preventative measure. Inspect your home regularly for gaps and holes as well as torn screens, broken vents/louvres, etc. and make necessary repairs. Once wildlife moves in, you can make the space less attractive to them by putting pungent items in the space such as moth balls, ammonia or peppermint oil. You can also introduce noises such as a battery-operated radio tuned to a talk station in the space. Most often, wildlife seeks these spaces to raise their young in them, then naturally disperse. If this is the case, make sure that the adult and babies leave before removing nesting material or waste, and sealing their entry holes. Hardware cloth, chicken wire and sheet metal are useful exclusion materials. A humane pest control company can help with exclusion. Relocation of wildlife is illegal in Virginia. Animals that are trapped must be released on the same property or euthanized.
What can I do about my neighbor's cat that stalks birds in my yard?
If asking for your neighbor’s help is not effective, you can contact Fairfax County Animal Control at 703 691 2131. It is illegal for cats or other pets to trespass on your private property. Some cat owners don't realize how dangerous it is for cats outdoors. The life expectancy of outdoor cats is less than a third of indoor cats. Outdoor cats are at risk from cars, attacks by other animals, disease, human cruelty and other dangers. Hundreds of millions of native birds are estimated to be killed by domestic cats every year.
Why is there wire fencing along the path in the Glade Stream Valley?
Periodically, beavers move into Reston. They are a native species that create beneficial wetland habitat for other species. However, they can also be destructive towards trees and the dams on man-made lakes. Reston has a designated Beaver Management Area where this species has a history of living. The fencing helps to keep the beavers off adjacent homeowner property, and away from areas where there could be flooding issues.