The Sustainable James Project is a collaborative project by the University of Richmond. The goal is to provide a series of data to encourage constituents to be more environmentally friendly. With more information readily accessible, residents of the James River Watershed are more likely to be conscientious of their habits and will know how much water their area consumes, diverges, and wastes.
Our Mission
Get information about America's founding river.
Learn more about Richmond's relationship with the James.
Explore UR's green initiatives and investment in the James.
Why Study the James?
"For 343 miles, the James River sweeps across the state of Virginia, connecting the Allegheny Mountains with the Chesapeake Bay. It is a massive watershed, a vital source of drinking water, a habitat for key aquatic species, and an important source of recreation. The most well-known section of the James may be the park and play whitewater paradise through downtown Richmond, but in the mountains of Western Virginia, near the headwaters, the James is a remote, pristine paddling experience highlighted by unrivaled scenery and calm class I waters". — Graham Averill, blueridgeoutdoors.com, http://www.jamesriverassociation.org/the-james-river/why-is-the-james-important
The James River is a very important part of Virginia. It not only gives us water, transportation, and produce, but a means of connecting to the natural world. The James brings us joy, solace, inspiration, and love.