Virginians can support outdoor access and conservation through state tax refund donations
Roanoke, Virginia – As tax season arrives, Virginians looking to make a meaningful impact have the opportunity to support outdoor recreation and conservation efforts across the Commonwealth—simply by donating all or part of their 2025 state income tax refund.
Through Virginia’s tax check-off program, taxpayers can direct their refunds to the Open Space Recreation and Conservation Fund, a program that directly supports outdoor projects and environmental preservation. “By donating all, or a portion of, their 2025 state income tax refunds to the Open Space Recreation and Conservation Fund, taxpayers passionate about enjoying and protecting the outdoors can make a difference.”
The fund helps support initiatives like the Trail Access Grants program, which has enabled communities to improve public access to outdoor spaces. For instance, a grant allowed the City of Roanoke to create its first accessible Roanoke River Blueway access point for activities such as fishing, boating, and recreation. “Before the project, it was not accessible to people with disabilities.”
Beyond local projects, the fund also contributes to statewide conservation efforts, including the expansion of the Natural Area Preserve System by helping the state acquire additional protected lands.
Managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the fund ensures that donations are used to enhance public access and preserve Virginia’s natural beauty for future generations.
To contribute, taxpayers should enter Code Number 68 on Schedule VAC (Virginia Contributions Schedule), Section II, when completing their Form 760 state individual tax return.
For full instructions and more details, visit DCR’s tax checkoff page.
