BLM to hold workshop on proposed sensory nature trail at Meadowood SRMA
10702 Harley Road
Lorton, VA 22079
United States
Event Description
The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to participate in an interactive field workshop on Saturday, May 3 at 9 a.m. to help shape the design of a proposed sensory nature trail at the Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area in Lorton, Virginia.
The workshop will begin at the Mustang Trailhead and will provide an opportunity for participants to to walk the property, explore potential trail locations, and share input on the types of sensory stations to be included in the project.
Following the field walk, participants will gather at the Meadowood Pavilion, where BLM staff will present potential trail features through interactive poster displays. Attendees will be invited to engage with visuals, share feedback using stickers and notes, and participate in open discussion. Materials will also be available for written and artistic contributions.
The proposed trail would include:
One mile of accessible trail
Up to six sensory stations
Trailhead facilities
ADA-accessible parking area with access road
Vault restroom
Inspired by the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park in New York, this proposed trail at Meadowood would be designed to accommodate individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders as well as the general public.
The BLM is drafting an environmental assessment for the project and is seeking public input to help shape the vision, especially regarding the design and function of the sensory stations. These stations may include elements like nature-based textures, sound-making features, motor skill activities, and visual experiences aimed at engaging the senses.
Public input will directly inform the planning process, with a formal comment period to follow when the draft environmental assessment is released.
Anyone unable to attend but interested in providing feedback may email: BLM_ES_NSDO_PublicInquiry@BLM.GOV. Subject line: “Sensory Nature Trail”
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.