James RIVERKEEPER® Program
Defending clean water through constant vigilance, community advocacy, and the global power of the Waterkeeper Alliance.
The James RIVERKEEPER program serves as the primary watchdog for the health of the James River. Launched in 2001, our program is part of the Waterkeeper Alliance, a global network of over 300 local water advocates. Consequently, the James River Association is part of an international force dedicated to ensuring everyone’s right to clean, drinkable, and fishable water.
Clean Water Defense
We monitor the mainstem of the James and its 15,000 miles of tributaries to identify pollution sources and illegal discharges.
Constant Vigilance
Furthermore, our team works alongside our dedicated James RiverRats volunteers to maintain a daily presence on the water, ensuring environmental laws are enforced.
Climate & Policy Advocacy
In addition to monitoring, we advocate for strong state and federal policies that combat climate change impacts and reduce industrial pollution in the James River Basin.
River Health & Safety Data
Community Engagement
How You Can Get Involved
RiverRats & Watershed Patrol
Learn to identify and document environmental hazards—from erosion and sediment runoff to illegal discharge—while gaining the technical skills needed to report pollution threats directly to the James Riverkeeper.
Report an Issue
Contact the James RIVERKEEPER to report an environmental issue on the James, at tdunlap@thejamesriver.org.
Volunteer to Test Water Quality
Sign up to help us track the health of the James by collecting water samples every Thursday between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
