More than one-third of all Virginians rely on the James River and its tributaries for water, commerce, and recreation. Our vision is a fully healthy James River supporting thriving communities. We believe if you change the James, the James will change you.
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You can hike it, bike it, swim it, run it or raft it. How you enjoy the James River is up to you.
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Enjoy River Stories from across the Watershed
Stories have a power unlike any other to spotlight how our experiences shape who we are, how we relate to one another, and how something – like a river – can connect us in profound ways, both as individuals and as communities. Dive in here.
While our stories may be different, the river that runs through them is a common thread that unites us all. It is our river to share. It is also our river to protect.
Stories of the James is a collection of stories from people across our watershed that show how our river connects and unites us as individuals and communities. Our goal is to feature a number of diverse voices and backgrounds to best represent the many people and communities in our watershed, and we would love to add your story to our collection!
JRA is thrilled to partner with VPM News to bring Stories by the James to the public. Click here to listen to exclusive cuts of storyteller interviews that originally aired in the fall of 2022.
Our sincere thanks to The Tomato Fund and VPM for the opportunity.
James Changing Actions since Earth Day 2019
Your actions make a difference
It has taken over four decades to take the river from one of the nation’s most polluted rivers to one of its most improved.
When you become a James Changer, you are joining a network of passionate and supportive river lovers across the Watershed, from the Alleghany Highlands to the Chesapeake Bay.
We encourage you to seek out your personal passion to help us change the James – and our communities – for the better.
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Riparian Stewards: Be a Part of the Buffer Solution!
Do you love the outdoors? Don’t mind getting your hands dirty? Want to help protect the James River? Then becoming a Riparian Steward for the James River Association is the perfect opportunity for you! The first three years after a forest buffer is planted is the...
Women’s History Month: Environmental Leaders
This Women’s History Month, we asked our staff to share a woman who has been an inspiration to them and why. Family members, local heroes, or world renowned environmental celebrities, below is a list of women who have made a difference in our lives. We would love to...
Press Release: Henrico county and Conservation groups finalize settlement to Reduce sewage pollution
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, March 1, 2023 CONTACTS:Kenny Fletcher, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, 804-258-1628 or kfletcher@cbf.orgErin Hillert, James River Association, (608) 239-2644 or ehillert@thejamesriver.orgTom Pelton, Environmental Integrity...
Press Statement: JRA Applauds Governor’s Clean Water Acceleration
PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:Friday, December 16, 2022 CONTACT:Anna KilliusDirector of Advocacy(410) 212-3819akillius@thejamesriver.orgJames River Association Applauds Governor's Clean Water Acceleration On Thursday, December 15th, Governor Youngkin released...