• Scenic Beauty

    A Paddler’s Haven

    From peaceful flatwater to rolling Class IV rapids, the James offers paddling opportunities for people of all abilities.

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About Us

The James River Advisory Council provides a forum for the diverse interests along the James River in Central Virginia and engages the public about issues and challenges facing the river. JRAC’s vision is a healthy, beautiful, economically vital and accessible James River that is cared for by a diverse and engaged community that acts on its behalf.

JRAC’s membership includes representatives from local jurisdictions, businesses and industry, civic organizations and individuals. By leading discussions about the river, and hosting regional events and programs, the council sets the tone for positive and interactive relationships among partners throughout the region.

Become a Member

Like what you see here? Then consider becoming a JRAC member!

JRAC is always looking for passionate people to join its membership.

If you have a background or skill set that you think would benefit JRAC’s mission and goals, please email membership@jrac-va.org.

Meeting Schedule

JRAC meetings are scheduled quarterly on the 4th Thursday of the month. Locations to be announced.

James River Week

Celebrate the James River all week-long Sept. 13-20, 2025!

JRAC is proud to announce that the 26th Annual James River Regional Cleanup will kick off a weeklong celebration of the James. In addition to the cleanup, James River Week will include fun and educational programs and events for all ages.

James River Days

Promoting activities along the James

James River Days offers many recreational, environmental and educational activities in, on and around the James River from April through October. Enjoy the river more and expand your river experience by participating in James River Days events!

2025 James River Regional Cleanup
Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to noon

The James River Regional Cleanup will be held this year on Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m.-noon.  Please review the site descriptions for specific instructions for your site.  Consider bringing you’re your own water, work gloves and insect repellent. Supplies vary by site. Please email us. if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you at the river!

Registration is Closed but walk-up volunteers are welcome!

Stewards of the River Awards

Do you know a person or organization that deserves recognition for their commitment to the James River?
Each spring, the James River Advisory Council presents the Stewards of the River Awards. The Stewards of the River Awards recognizes outstanding community members and organizations that make measurable, positive impacts through their roles as leaders, community partners, guardians and spokespersons on behalf of the river, as communicators of JRAC’s mission and vision, as storytellers of the James River history and as educators who raise public awareness about the river.

Taking Photos?

If you have photos from an attended event, for use on the JRAC website, Facebook page or in print materials email them to Kim Conley.

Join our Mailing List

Sign up for our mailing list – You’ll receive JRAC’s quarterly e-newsletter “James River Reach,” as well as notifications about events, special initiatives and volunteer opportunities.