Green Infrastructure

What is green infrastructure and why is it important?

Polluted stormwater runoff is a significant contributor of sediment and nutrient pollution to the James River. This problem often arises in urban and suburban areas when impervious surfaces, such as streets, roofs and parking lots, do not allow stormwater to absorb into the ground. The stormwater instead runs off into our waterways, picking up pollutants in the process. In order to solve this issue we need to slow stormwater down and give the water a place to go – this is where green infrastructure comes in.

Walkable Watersheds

JRA works with localities throughout the watershed to reduce pollution at its source by planting trees, installing rain gardens and habitat gardens, and creating walkable watersheds. These projects manage stormwater, conserve and restore ecosystems, and improve the quality of life for residents. To date, we’ve worked with 4 communities across the watershed. Check out the Walkable Watershed Plans for each:

Greening Richmond Public Libraries 

In Richmond, we work with RVAH2O on a variety of projects that incorporate green infrastructure in our River City. Current projects include a partnership with Richmond Public Libraries to incorporate bioretention and native plants and select branch locations. 

The James River Association is soliciting bids for projects at Broad Rock Branch Library, North Avenue Branch Library, and West End Branch Library. Get involved in this project!

What Can You DO?

The State of the James is a report card summarizing ongoing efforts to bring the James River back to full health. This comprehensive assessment of the health of the river is published every two years. View the report to see how the river’s health has changed.

Give Trees a Drink This Summer

Summertime in Virginia comes with hot and, at times, dry weather that can be very stressful for trees. Heat stress and drought conditions can make trees more susceptible to insects and disease problems. Trees have become increasingly important in the face of a...

Plant This, Not That, This Spring

Many plant species prevalent in landscapes are not native and even invasive to our part of the world. Non-native and invasive plant species generally offer little ecological value and can outcompete native plant species. Species including Crape myrtle, Nandina, and...

Conservation Tips to Improve the Health of Your Yard

Fall is here and there isn’t a better time of year to implement river-friendly conservation practices right where you live. At the James River Association (JRA), we believe stewardship of our natural resources starts at home. These five conservation tips will improve...

Salt’s At Fault

By Mason Manley, Community Engagement Coordinator Intern Road salt is a threat to water quality and harmful to aquatic ecosystems The winter season brings cold temperatures and wintry precipitation like snow, sleet, and freezing rain that can make all modes of...