Middle James River Education Program
Explore and Connect with the Middle James River
Our Central Virginia James River Education Programs serve the central Virginia region via many sites across the watershed, including at the James A Buzzard River Education Center, Presquile National Wildlife Refuge, Deep Bottom Park, James River Park System, and at local community parks across the region.
James A. Buzzard River Education Center
The James A. Buzzard River Education Center, opened in June 2024, serves as a hub for James River Association (JRA) educational programs. It offers students and community members hands-on learning experiences focused on river stewardship, conservation, and the ecological and cultural significance of the James River.
Presquile National Wildlife Refuge
At Presquile National Wildlife Refuge, JRA leads environmental education programs aboard the Spirit of the James that engage participants in wildlife observation, trawling, and hands-on activities. The refuge’s diverse habitats provide an ideal setting for students and the community to learn about the importance of preserving the James River ecosystem.
Deep Bottom Park
JRA’s programs at Deep Bottom Park include outdoor education focused on the river’s ecosystems, offering activities like canoeing and water quality testing. These programs aim to connect participants to the river while fostering environmental awareness and conservation.
James River Park System
Through the James River Park System and other local parks, JRA offers educational programs that connect students with the James River. Activities include water quality monitoring and habitat restoration efforts that promote stewardship of the river’s natural resources.
Our Central Virginia River programs serve students in the Middle James River watershed, which travels from Lynchburg and ends at the fall line in Richmond. Its watershed lies within the Piedmont region of Virginia, and our Central Virginia programs can serve students from the following areas: the Cities of Richmond, Hopewell and Petersburg; Counties of Amelia, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Powhatan, and Louisa.
Education Programs
If you are committed to providing students with quality field-based learning experiences but are limited by funds, please contact JRA for more information about need-based scholarships for appropriate individuals and schools.
James River Ecology School
Presquile National Wildlife Refuge Day & Overnight Programming
Watershed Classrooms
SOL aligned lesson plans delivered into your classroom
River Explorations
Canoe Paddle at Deep Bottom Park or the James A Buzzard River Center
Visit the Park
Personalized curriculum for students in your local park
Choose from our selection of outdoor and science-based offerings to best suit your grade level and interest!
| Ecology School Day Trip | Ecology School Overnight | Deep Bottom River Exploration | Watershed Classrooms | ||
| No. of students | <30 | 30-55 | <30 | <25 | 35 |
| Duration of programming | 4-5 hours | 4-5 hours | 24 hours | 4-5 hours | 45 min. |
| Description | Wetland paddle, pontoon boat trip | Wetland paddle, pontoon boat trip | Wetland paddle, overnight stay in bunkhouse | Wetland paddle and water quality at Deep Bottom Park | In-classroom visit from a JRA educator |
Meet the Richmond Region Education Staff
Mauren Campbell
Richmond Education Manager
mcampbell@thejamesriver.org
Gabe Thornton
Senior Environmental Educator
Email: gthornton@thejamesriver.org
Emma Harrison
Senior Environmental Educator
Email: eharrison@thejamesriver.org
Christina Blackwell
Seasonal Environmental Educator
Hannah Dahl
Seasonal Environmental Educator
