James River Leadership Expeditions
The James River Leadership Expeditions program has evolved!
To better serve our students and provide more specialized experiences, we have split our traditional leadership program into two distinct tracks. Whether you are looking for a deep dive into environmental data and advocacy or a rugged, week-long wilderness adventure, we have a path for you. Explore our new programs below to find the best fit for your journey on the James.
FLOW: Future Leaders of the Water
Become a voice for the river with FLOW. This program is designed for students who want to merge environmental science with community action. Participants will engage in hands-on water quality monitoring, data analysis, and advocacy training. By the end of the program, you will have the tools to lead your own “River Hero” projects and influence the future of the James River watershed through science-based leadership.
James River Expeditions
Trade your screen for a paddle and join us for the ultimate river challenge. Our week-long expeditions take high schoolers through the most scenic and rigorous stretches of the James. From navigating whitewater in the mountains to camping under the stars along the tidal banks, this program focuses on backcountry skills, technical paddling, and building lifelong bonds with a crew of fellow explorers.
2025-2026 Program Timeline
Session 1: Week-long Expedition trip on the James
Middle Expedition Trip 7/7-7/11
Lower Expedition Trip 7/28-8/1
Upper Expedition Trip 8/11- 8/15
Students will also be required to attend three additional sessions and complete a capstone service project.
Session 2: Saturday, November 8th to Sunday, November 9th, 2025
Overnight at Presquile National Wildlife Refuge in Chesterfield. All three trip cohorts will come together to meet for the first time. We will continue leadership training and begin brainstorming capstone projects.
Session 3: Saturday, January 17, 2026 — James A. Buzzard River Education Center, Richmond
Capstone Project planning workday with an example project that we will complete as a group. This will be the time to hone in ideas and create a plan of action for the spring when you will complete your projects.
Capstone Project: You will design and complete a capstone service project that utilizes leadership skills gained during the program to effect positive change to your local environment/ portion of the watershed. These projects are created, led, and delivered by you. Outside of planning sessions, you should expect to dedicate 15-30 hours of time to preparing for, and delivering this project.
Session 4: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 — James A. Buzzard River Education Center, Richmond
The presentation day for your capstone projects. Each participant will give a 10 minute presentation supported by digital media. This will be our last meeting as a whole group. We will have a small graduation ceremony after presentations. Family and friends are welcome to attend.
James River Leadership Expeditions Application
Thank you for your interest in the James River Leadership Expedition Program. Applications for the 2025-26 cohort are closed. Please look for the application to reopen in December 2025 for the 2026-27 program.
