Water Quality Monitoring

What is James River Watch?

James River Watch is a water quality monitoring program that communicates bacteria levels and river conditions to the public. During the summer, weekly swimming, paddling, and recreation conditions are made available at www.jamesriverwatch.org, so before you head down to the banks of the James and take the plunge, remember that it pays to know before you go!

Why Monitor Bacteria?

While the James River is a great place to cool off, it can carry extra pollutants during periods of high water and after heavy summer downpours. Some seg ments of the river are impaired due to excessive harmful bacteria—which can
make an afternoon on the river less enjoyable. James River Watch is designed to measure bacteria levels and communicate them to the public, so you can have a better time on the water!

No monitoring or science background is required. We will assign volunteers to sampling teams, and work with each volunteer to help establish a sampling schedule that fits individual schedules and availability. Volunteers already participating in our RiverRats Program may count their water monitoring work as an Action Project.