Improvements to James River Association’s Turkey Island Creek property underway

The James River Association has begun initial enhancements to its 12.2-acre Turkey Island Creek property at 5501 New Market Road in Varina. Improvements consist of a new driveway, canoe and kayak launch, and interpretive signage that will make the property more accessible for human use.

When complete, the property will feature an improved river access on Turkey Island Creek, providing paddlers connection to the James River and Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

“Turkey Island Creek is a beautiful tidal tributary of the James River near Presquile National Wildlife Refuge,” said Justin Doyle, JRA’s community conservation manager. “It’s one of the best places in the Richmond region to enjoy outdoor recreation activities like canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding. When complete, JRA’s Turkey Island Creek project will create a place for people to enjoy Turkey Island Creek and the James River.”

Since purchasing the 12.2 acres of land protected through a Virginia Outdoors Foundation conservation easement from the Capital Region Land Conservancy two years ago, JRA has been working with support from the National Park Service Chesapeake Bay Office and a team of consultants from HG Design Studio and Wetland Studies and Solutions, Inc.

Improvements have been planned with the intention of eventually creating a new riverside park in Henrico County. Improvements to the property are funded by grants from The Beirne Carter Foundation, DuPont Clear into the Future, and Recreational Equipment, Inc.

The James River Association’s Turkey Island Creek property is not open to the public on a daily basis yet, but JRA is providing public guided paddle programs from the property on select dates through the month of October.

For details about programs, visit https://thejamesriver.org/whats-happening/connect-with-the-james/.