PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, March 23, 2022
CONTACT:
Erin Hillert, Marketing & Communications Manager
James River Association
(e) ehillert@thejamesriver.org (c) 608.239.2644
Take a River Trip with James River Association’s Connect with the James Program
It’s no secret that outdoor spaces saw a huge uptick in visitation during the pandemic, and this trend is thankfully sticking around even as Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. For those seeking time and enjoyment on the water, The James River Association (JRA) is once again providing their beloved “Connect with the James” guided river trips in the Greater Richmond and Williamsburg areas. The program is open to the public and offers one-of-kind experiences to kayak, canoe, or take a pontoon boat trip on the James while learning about the wildlife, history and natural resources of the river and its tributaries.
“This year, we are excited to expand our programming and provide new avenues to not only enjoy the James, but give back to it as well,” said Mike Lyden, JRA’s Operations Manager. “From guided trips focused on history and the environment, to trash clean ups along its banks, the James River truly has something to offer everyone! Join us for a Connect with the James trip to find your perfect way to connect with the river.”
New for 2022, the program plans to add options to spend time on or near the river with Spanish-speaking trips, biking, hiking, and trash cleanups. Additionally, the organization is committed to increasing accessible programming with several adaptive trips. Connect with the James will also continue to offer past favorite trips, like guided kayak and canoe tours of Powhatan Creek in James City County and Four Mile Creek in Henrico County, sunset cruises near downtown Richmond, and wildlife tours highlighting birding along the river and the ever-popular sturgeon sighting trips during James River Week in September.
“Our Williamsburg area programs allow participants to explore Powhatan Creek, a serene tributary of the James which features freshwater tidal marshes and wildlife viewing, with the backdrop of the historic Jamestown area,” said Emily Hinson, JRA’s Lower James Regional Outreach Manager. “We are excited to continue to offer these programs in partnership with James City County Parks and Recreation.”
Pre-registration is required for all programs, with Covid-19 safety guidelines enforced. JRA provides canoes, kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices to participants. All fees associated with Connect with the James trips are donations to JRA to help protect and create a healthy river for thriving communities.
For more information and to book a trip, visit https://thejamesriver.org/whats-happening/connect-with-the-james/.
ABOUT THE JAMES RIVER ASSOCIATION: The James River Association is a member-supported nonprofit organization founded in 1976 to serve as a guardian and voice for the James River. Throughout the James River’s 10,000-square mile watershed, the James River Association works toward its vision of a fully healthy James River supporting thriving communities. The James River Association believes that “when you change the James, the James changes you”. With offices in Lynchburg, Richmond, Williamsburg, and Scottsville, the James River Association is committed to protecting the James River and connecting people to it. For more information visit www.thejamesriver.org.