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.
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News & Notes
Meet the Water Quality Expert Behind James River Watch
August is National Water Quality month, and what better way to celebrate than by learning about JRA’s GIS and Water Quality Manager, Michael Gillert? As the backbone of the James River Watch program, Michael guides volunteers in gathering bacteria samples at various...
A Boater & Angler’s Guide to Stopping Invasive Species in Virginia
Virginia’s rivers and lakes are incredible places to boat, fish, and spend time on the water. But non-native invasive species can quickly damage these ecosystems if they spread. The good news? Stopping them is simple, and it comes down to a few basic habits every time...
Press Releases & Statements
James River Association Calls for Urgent Action Needed to Address Impending Crisis at Shoosmith Landfill
PUBLIC STATEMENTFor Immediate ReleaseJune 3, 2026Urgent Action Needed to Address Impending Crisis at Shoosmith Landfill James River Association is calling for urgent state intervention and funding to address the growing threat of an environmental and public health...
Press Release: James River Watch Kicks Off New Season
PRESS RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:May 27, 2026 CONTACT: Anna LukeDirector of Marketing and Communicationsaluke@thejamesriver.org James River Watch Kicks Off New Season with Expanded Access for River Users Record volunteer participation, Spanish-language website, and...
Events & Volunteer Opportunities