Potomac River near Potomac Creek in King George County, VA.

Mr. Thomas E. Harris

County Administrator

King George County

10459 Courthouse Drive, Ste. 200

King George, VA 22485

November 21, 2000

Dear Tom,

I was delighted to learn the news that your Board of Supervisors has approved funds to purchase approximately thirteen acres of land along the Potomac River near Potomac Creek.  The purpose of this letter is indicate our support for the County's initiative and reinforce the importance of what you are trying to accomplish.

Over twenty years ago I visited this part of the Potomac River area and was impressed with the special qualities and opportunities found in King George County.  The initiative that the Board of Supervisors is taking obviously helps meet local recreation, conservation, environmental and quality of life needs while contributing to the overall water quality and living resources goals of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement.  

Public access within this river segment is presently limited and your acquisition project will meet an important public need. The land to be acquired is along a part of the river that is recognized as one of the top 5 or 10 bass fishing rivers in the United States.   This fishery not only provides an important recreation opportunity for your residents but it also can be a way to increase economic opportunities for nearby communities.  The land that you intend to purchase will assure that your residents, and visitors, will benefit from the rich legacy and traditions associated with Virginian, and American, recreational fishing and boating.

More and more it seems that successful communities are using their waterfronts to help achieve economic prosperity and environmental health.  The land you intend to purchase will also provide you with an opportunity to use your waterfront access to tell residents and visitors about the past, present and future of King George County.  Public access areas like yours are places that can be used to shape peoples perceptions about their history and the future of their area.  The access site can serve as both a window on the Potomac and a gateway to King George County to view and showcase the assets of the County, sparking local pride and attracting new residents and business to your communities.

Congratulations on your decision to purchase this important property.  It is gratifying to see local elected officials make commitments that will be good for the economy, community and the environment.  Communities located on rivers like the Potomac, and Potomac Creek, are blessed with good fortune.  Your initiative recognizes your wealth and will be a decision that your residents will celebrate over and over.

Please let us know if we can help identify any additional funding you may need to make this project successful.  If appropriate we are willing to assist your office pursue public and private grants.

Thanks for sharing the good news.  May you have continued success in your work.

Sincerely,

J. Glenn Eugster

Assistant Regional Director, Partnerships Program