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.
Explore
You can hike it, bike it, swim it, run it or raft it. How you enjoy the James River is up to you.
Support
We’ve taken the river from a D- to a B- in terms of overall health – but we need help to reach our goal of a Grade A James.
Volunteer
Whatever your interests are, there is a role for you in improving the health of the James River.
Discover
The James is Virginia’s largest tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, at 340 miles long it is one of the longest rivers in America that begins and ends in the same state.
The James River Watershed
The James River is Virginia’s largest river, flowing across the entire state from its beginning at the headwaters of the Cowpasture and Jackson Rivers in Bath and Highland Counties, to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay in Hampton Roads.
Each year millions of Virginians go to the James and its tributaries to boat, fish, swim, hike or just take in the beautiful scenery.
News & Notes
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play a huge role in helping the James River Association achieve its mission. Much of our work would not be possible without the knowledge and dedication of our volunteers. Whether it’s getting your hands dirty with one of our Watershed Restoration projects,...
read more2019 River Hero Home Month
We are inviting you to join us in celebrating River Hero Home month! Stormwater runoff continues to be one of the largest threats facing the James River. Every time it rains, fertilizers, herbicides, bacteria from pet waste, and chemicals flow from our properties...
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