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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Discover
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.
RiverRat Program
Riparian Stewards
James River Buffers
Living Shorelines
Press Release: JRA is Recruiting Students for the Adventure of a Lifetime!
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 18, 2023 CONTACT:Erin Hillert, James River AssociationCell: 608.239.2644 | Email: ehillert@thejamesriver.orgJames River Association is Recruiting Students for the Adventure of a Lifetime! The James River Association (JRA)...
James River Buffers: James Riparian Consortium Annual Report
The James River Association serves as the convener for the Upper and Middle James Riparian Consortium. This is a network of private, non-profit, and public partners. They share expertise and resources to increase implementation, as well as awareness of riparian...
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...
Press Release: Virginia Freshwater Mussel Restoration Advances Under New Grants
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, October 31, 2022 CONTACT:CBF- Kenny Fletcher, kfletcher@cbf.org, 804/638-9036JRA- Erin Hillert, ehillert@thejamesriver.org, 804/215-6142Virginia Freshwater Mussel Restoration Advances Under New Grants Freshwater mussel...