VA HJR42

Requests the Department of Conservation and Recreation to study the feasibility of establishing a state park in Washington County at the Mendota Trail and Abrams Falls within the Holston River watershed

The Mendota Trail is a 12.5-mile rails-to-trails greenway along the former Southern Railroad corridor between Bristol and Mendota, now open for hiking and biking

The Mendota Trail and Abrams Falls are designated among the Nature Conservancy's 39 "Last Great Places" as one of the world's most important intact ecosystems

The Department must seek input from local citizens, governments, and regional organizations, with meetings completed by November 30, 2026

A final report with findings and recommendations must be submitted to the Governor and General Assembly by the first day of the 2027 Regular Session