Cleveland_Barrens_Natural_Area_Preserve
Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve
Nature preserve in Virginia, US
Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve is a 1,288-acre (5.21 km2) Natural Area Preserve located within the Clinch River Valley in Russell County, Virginia.[1]
The preserve protects several dolomite barrens, a globally rare natural community.[1] These areas are typically small, natural openings in otherwise forested landscapes, characterized by thin calcareous soils, dry conditions, and exposed bedrock including limestone or dolomite.[2] At the Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve, four such barrens are found on steep, southwest-facing slopes; these barrens are dominated by various warm-season grasses, such as indiangrass, big bluestem, and little bluestem. Thirteen rare plant species and three rare insect species make use of the habitat found in the preserve.[1]
The preserve is owned and maintained by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. It does not include improvements for public access, and visitors must make arrangements with a state-employed land steward prior to visiting.[1]
