We’re pleased that a considerable grant recently bestowed on Franklin will enable the City to create a riverwalk park along the Blackwater. It’s a project that’s long been an idea worthy of development, but understandably needed funding.

Don’t pack your picnic basket anytime soon, though. The $45,000 from the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation will be devoted to the preliminary tasks of surveying, assessing environmental concerns and checking titles.

After which the city’s another step closer to obtaining the land and then developing it for walking, observing nature, fishing, kayaking and, yes, picnicking.

Speaking of river scenery and activities on the Blackwater, thanks goes to both Byron Carmean of Suffolk and our Riverkeeper, Jeff Turner.

Their early efforts to identify the invasive Alligator weed will soon enable the proper agency to destroy this destructive plant.

We look forward to reporting and commenting on the progress of both projects, all which are for the betterment of the city and river.