Help the James... on Land

If you live or work in the James River watershed, you can give back to its health.

Whether you appreciate access to clean water or just feel passionate about protecting our environment, there are things you can do that don’t involve getting wet! Below are great opportunities if you prefer working on land – or even your own backyard. When you become a James Changing volunteer, you are joining a network of passionate and supportive river lovers across the Watershed, from the Alleghany Highlands to the Chesapeake Bay. 

Find ways you can change the James below, and then record your actions to Be a James Changer! 

River Hero Homes

Simple changes on your property like installing a rain barrel, planting native plants, or creating a rain garden all support our waterways.

Riparian Stewards

Riparian Stewards are volunteers who nurture and monitor select riparian buffers installed through the James River Buffer Program.

James River Buffer Program

Our James River Buffer program enables property owners to install streamside buffers, free of charge!

Living Shorelines

Our living shoreline cost-share program is available for property located on a tidal tributary of the James River.