Webinar Series

In JRA’s 2021 State of the James report, American shad scored the first ever 0% in our biennial report, dating back to its inception. American shad are one of many indicators we use to describe the health of the James River, and as a species, they have significant ecological, historical, and commercial value to our river and Virginia as a whole. In 2022, JRA worked with the Northam Administration to secure funding in the state budget for a Recovery Plan to guide efforts to revitalize this important species.

In this webinar (recorded on December 13, 2023) we hear from three experts on the state of American shad in the James, the development of A Framework for the Recovery of the American Shad (Alosa Sapidissima) in the James River, Virginia, and where this recovery plan takes us next in our long term efforts to restore this species that is all but extinct in the James River. A Q&A session follows the presentation.

Want to know how actions at the nation’s capital are impacting America’s Founding River? Join us May 10th at 5pm to learn about JRA’s federal policy priorities and how the decisions in D.C. affect the health of our river and our watershed communities. From environmental justice, to clean water funding, and the future of infrastructure, our special guests from the Office of Congressman A. Donald McEachin and the Choose Clean Water Coalition will help us catch up on what’s catching attention in Congress.

Tucked in between the rocks of our rivers and streams are some of the most interesting animals in our watershed—Freshwater Mussels. Freshwater Mussels are masters of disguises, camouflaging themselves to look like rocks and fish, while they filter algae, bacteria, and nutrients from the water. Join us to learn about the mighty mussel and the efforts of JRA, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to restore populations of these important animals to the James.

Virginia’s legislative season is usually a fast-paced blur of hallway conversations, marathon committee meetings, and last-minute negotiations in a race to finish business before time runs out. But this year, our state legislators face a new challenge: ensuring public participation and transparency when a pandemic prevents us from meeting face-to-face.

Join us as JRA’s Policy Analyst, Anna Killius, takes you through a preview of what to expect over the next thirty days, how you can get involved, and why your voice makes a difference, especially during these unprecedented times. We’ll also welcome Delegate Betsy Carr as a special guest.

The uncertainty and pandemic that has hit us in 2020, has been leading people to seek the support of the natural world. Ecotherapy is an emerging field that helps us to understand how our wellbeing is intertwined with nature. In this webinar, explore simple practices for cultivating a nourishing, reciprocal relationship with the natural world. Two local ecotherapists, Amber Ellis, JRA’s Senior Watershed Restoration Manager, and Carolyn Schuyler, Wildrock’s Executive Director, will introduce you to this field and guide you through an ecotherapy exercise from your own home. Our hope is that you leave the hour with some tools to add to your toolbox that will bring you closer to nature and yourself. Link to Ecotherapy Presentation Slides.

With a history dating back to the age of dinosaurs, Atlantic Sturgeon are living fossils that hold significant importance to the James River. These ancient creatures have faced population decline due to overfishing, habitat loss and pollution, but show signs today of making a great return to the river. Learn more about these fish, research by the VCU Rice Rivers Center, and our partnership to promote conservation efforts. Led by Jamie Brunkow, our James RIVERKEEPER®, and Matt Balazik, Ph.D. and VCU Research Assistant Professor.

Get the lowdown from regional experts on the best places along the James River for hiking, biking, and paddling. Led by JRA’s Rob Campbell, Upper James Community Conservationist; Justin Doyle, Community Conservationist Manager; Emily Hinson, Lower James Regional Outreach Manager; and featuring guest speaker Greg Velzy, Senior Recreation Programmer at Chesterfield County and Chair of the Historic Falls of the James Scenic River Advisory Committee.

Learn why population numbers of two of the most important fish in the James River are going in opposite directions and how JRA is managing these challenges. Led by Jamie Brunkow, Senior Advocacy Manager/James RIVERKEEPER® and Aaron Buchard, Master Captain and Environmental Educator and featuring guest speaker Albert Spells, Fish Biologist at US Fish and Wildlife Service.