James River Association’s seasonal boat and paddle programs resuming

The James River Association is launching its seasonal boat and paddle programs this month. The guided river trips are open to the public and offer opportunities for participants to engage with the river through birdwatching tours, photography excursions, batteau rides, and sturgeon-watching trips while learning about the wildlife, history, and natural resources of the river and its tributaries.

Trips will take place in each of JRA’s three regions, which include Richmond, Williamsburg, and Lynchburg.

In the Richmond region, JRA’s Connect with the James program will offer pontoon boat sunset cruises, wildlife outings highlighting the popular Atlantic sturgeon, and art-themed adventures in partnership with Artspace, in which participants can either sketch or photograph the river with the guidance of a seasoned teacher.

“Every year, more than 2.7 million Virginians rely on the James River for drinking water, but only a small handful of them have regular access to the river. Our goal with the Connect with James program is to change that,” said Mike Lyden, JRA’s senior operations manager. “Whether taking a guided trip focused on history and wildlife or participating in a trash cleanup along the river’s banks, the James has a way to engage everyone.”

In the Williamsburg region, JRA’s Connect with the James program will offer kayaking tours of Powhatan Creek in partnership with James City County, highlighting river birds and other local flora and fauna.

In the Lynchburg region, JRA’s James River Adventures, located at Riveredge Park across the river from downtown Lynchburg, will provide guided river paddles in addition to offering an opportunity to ride back in time on a batteau boat along one of the James’ most fascinating stretches of water.

“We can’t wait to get people back on the James for river season,” said Rob Campbell, JRA’s Upper James senior regional manager. “I’m especially excited to provide river lovers with the opportunity to take a trip on our historic batteau and give them a chance to enjoy the river in a whole new way.”

Pre-registration is required for all programs. JRA provides canoes, kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices to participants. All fees associated with Connect with the James and James River Adventures are donations to JRA to help protect and connect people with the James, and to create a healthy river for thriving communities.

For details or to book a trip, visit https://thejamesriver.org/whats-happening/connect-with-the-james/.