Partnership Will Identify and Pursue Grant Funding Regarding Flood Preparedness, Outdoor Recreation, Community Services, and Economic Development

Richmond, VA — First Earth|2030, an eco-asset management firm based in Richmond, announced today a new partnership to bring innovative resources to Buchanan County. 

Buchanan County, like many localities in coal country and far Southwest Virginia, seeks to leverage its natural resources to improve its economy, public safety, and community quality of life. The county sought a partner to help bring in consultants, experts, and funding to support its vision. First Earth|2030 (FE) is proud to have secured the role in a first-of-its-kind partnership for both entities.

For the first order of business, FE will help the County apply to the inaugural round of Virginia’s Community Flood Preparedness Fund. The resulting grant-funded plans would support future applications to the same funding stream for projects that ameliorate flooding risks in Buchanan County. Reduced risks will improve quality of life and increase the sound management of natural resources. FE’s team sees this initial grant for planning as a foundation for future phases of work, which will involve funding not only for flood preparedness projects, but also for trails and outdoor recreation, leading to co-benefits and targeted projects in tourism, community services, and economic development.

“We are pleased that Buchanan County has selected First Earth to begin a partnership to explore implementing our unique set of expert services to further plan and apply a solution set to prepare for these all too frequent weather driven events. We must get funding sources in line to bring relief to those that feel these impacts the most, “ said Tee Clarkson, Principal of First Earth | 2030.

About First Earth|2030

First Earth | 2030 resides at the intersection of urgent environmental needs and innovative eco/climate solutions. It is a results-based environmental asset management firm delivering customized outcomes for public and private clients. Its team provides innovative conservation techniques that result in environmental and economic project lift.