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.
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
We are recruiting the James River’s first line of citizen defense, the RiverRats, who play a vital role in protecting and restoring the James.
Riparian Stewards
Volunteer are needed to nurture & monitor select riparian forest buffers we have installed through our programs.
James River Buffers
Your property may qualify for a buffer planting. 100% of project costs are covered for qualifying landowners.
Living Shorelines
We can help eligible homeowners in the tidal watershed install living shorelines.
News & Notes
2024 River Hero Home Month
October is River Hero Homes Month! River Hero Homes is a community of stewards that realize the first step to a healthier James River starts at home. Implementing river-friendly conservation practices at homes is as easy as properly disposing of pet waste, using...
Summer Education Update
With the school year starting again and the weather turning cooler, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible summer we had! It was a summer full of exploration, engagement, and fun! In addition to our James River Leadership Expedition trips with high...
Press Releases & Statements
Press Release: VDH Issues Recreational Water Advisory for the James River at Manchester Bridge
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Junly 17, 2024 MEDIA CONTACTS: Tom Dunlap, James Riverkeeper, James River Associationtdunlap@thejamesriver.org RE: VDH Issues Recreational Water Advisory for the James River at Manchester Bridge (9th Street to Osborne Landing) Due...
Press Release: James A. Buzzard River Education Center Opens in Richmond
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Junly 17, 2024 MEDIA CONTACTS: Ashleigh Moody James River Association(e) amoody@thejamesriver.org (c) 804.304.7430 Angie Williams, Senior Digital Marketing ManagerJames River Association(e) awilliams@thejamesriver.org (c)James A....
Events & Volunteer Opportunities