Protect Migratory Fish

Once thriving symbols of Virginia’s river ecosystems, historically vital migratory fish are now vanishing. This alarming trend affects multiple species, signaling deeper issues within crucial waterways like the James River.
Discover how the James River Association is fighting to understand the underlying causes and secure a future for these struggling populations.

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Volunteer

Whether planting trees, patrolling the river, or helping to install living shorelines, your help matters!

Greening Richmond's Libraries

Join us as we work together with partners and volunteers to aid Richmond’s Public Libraries.

Support our Connect with the James Program

Get your ‘Paddle to Protect’ shirt today!

Rain Barrel and Native Plant Workshops

Join us for a Fall River Hero Home workshop!

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.
News & Notes

Conservation Tips: Skip the Salt this Winter

Road salt pollutes local waterways and harms aquatic ecosystems The winter months bring us cold temperatures and wintry precipitation like snow, sleet, and freezing rain that can make paved surfaces and sidewalks slick and hazardous. Each year, transportation...

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Together for Tomorrow: 2025 Living Shoreline Summit Recap

The sixth annual Living Shoreline Summit, hosted by the Living Shoreline Collaborative (LSC), was a resounding success! Held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at The Mariners’ Museum in Newport News, VA, the event brought together 90 dedicated participants—from property...

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Press Releases

Press Release: The James River Gets an Overall Grade of B

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 23, 2025 CONTACT:Angie Williams James River Association (e) awilliams@thejamesriver.org   [LINK TO SUPPORTING MEDIA] [LINK TO INDICATOR CONTENT]  The James River Gets an Overall Grade of B Investments in Restoration...

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Event Calendar