Stormwater

• Phase 2 of engagement has recently concluded on the Low Residential Study (LRS), which will recommend limits for impervious area on lots in Arlington’s low density residential neighborhoods. 

• Arlington participates in the regional rain barrel program. At the Rain Barrel workshop on Nov. 8 from 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., you will learn how to build and install a rain barrel. Install two rain barrels and get a credit on your stormwater utility bill!

• On Oct. 23, 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., join Extension Master Gardener Kathie Clements for Not on the Menu: Using Deer-Resistant Native Plants in Your Garden, a virtual session to learn about native plants that deer tend to pass by. Ideas for companion plantings, landscaping tips and resource lists will be shared to help you create a beautiful garden that these voracious eaters will ignore. 

• Flooding can occur not only in identified high-risk areas, but also in areas that may not have been identified as high risk. Prepare for and reduce your risk of flooding plus learn about purchasing flood insurance here.

Energy

• The Virginia Department of Energy will soon be releasing a Contractor Browser on the Virginia Energy Connect website. This tool will be a Commonwealth-wide, voluntary network of clean energy contractors, installers, and service providers. Participants are licensed, as required, to help Virginia residents and businesses save on their energy bills through energy efficiency, solar, sustainable transportation and related projects. Service providers interested in being included should complete the intake form to provide all relevant company information.  

• A Home Energy Coach is a resource from the Arlington Home Energy Hub that provides free, virtual technical support to help Arlington residents make energy upgrades. Submit your interest form today.

• Interested in professional opportunities within the Electric Vehicles and Sustainability Services industries? Register for the 2026 Career Connect Expo on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus.

• Community Housing Partners helps residents’ lower energy costs, while delivering broader benefits to communities through energy conservation and economic investment. Explore programs.

• Register with Switch Together by November 18 for discounted solar panels and/or batteries. Learn more about Group Purchasing Programs.

Climate

Share your voice on the proposed Dominion Energy-NextEra Merger

A decision that will shape the energy future of every Dominion customer in Virginia, including households and businesses across Arlington, is under review. The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) is taking public comments on the proposed $67 billion merger of Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy (Case No. PUR-2026-00112). We hope you'll take part.

Join in on the conversation in Fairfax

The SCC will hold three in-person hearings to collect public testimony. The closest to Arlington is happening in Fairfax on October 9.

• When: Thursday, October 9, 2026, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
• Where: Fairfax County Government Center, Board Auditorium
• Address: 12000 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035

A hearing examiner will receive comments, and SCC staff will give a brief update on the case. Each speaker will have up to two minutes.

Can't make it to Fairfax? You have options. Key dates:

• November 2: Last day to sign up as a public witness
• November 5: Public testimony by phone from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. and in person at the SCC in Richmond from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
• November 9: Public testimony by phone from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. This is also the deadline for written comments.
• November 10: Public testimony by phone from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
• Early 2027: The SCC's final decision is expected.

Learn More and Comment

Visit scc.virginia.gov and search for Case PUR-2026-00112. There you can:

• Read case documents
• Register as a public witness
• Submit written comments

General Sustainability

• Your Leaf Pile Could Be a Wildlife Hotel. That pile of leaves in the corner of your yard is more than yard waste. Fallen leaves provide a safe winter home for butterflies and other pollinators while also creating rich compost for your garden. Give nature a helping hand and turn fall’s leftovers into next season's growth. Learn more.

• The pilot Snow Buddies Program is seeking community members who want to make a meaningful difference this winter. Volunteer Snow Buddies will be paired with 1-2 older or vulnerable neighbors for the snow season to aid in snow removal efforts. Join us in building a more resilient community! Learn more and show your interest in volunteering for the Snow Buddies Program through October 9, 2026.

• The fall 2026 Environmental Collection and Recycling (E-CARE) event is happening Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine, at 1425 N. Quincy St. (across from Washington-Liberty High School). This free, biannual event allows Arlington residents to safely dispose of household hazardous materials (HHMs), old electronics and small metal items.

For More Information

Stormwater  |  AIRE  |  Climate Action Plan

All Green Events (Stormwater), AIRE (Energy) and Climate Policy updates have been combined into The Arlington Green Scene: a monthly, full-scope bulletin on sustainability. Subscribers can manage their subscriptions below.