Program Partners
The James River Buffer Program is a unique program that brings together the expertise of the James River Association (JRA) and the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF). Partnerships in this effort are important to ensure the James River watershed has resilient streamside forests that improve water quality and that landowners visions are understood. Other key partners include the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Districts and the Virginia Outdoors Foundation.
Lead Partners
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRYThe Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) protects and develops healthy and sustainable forest resources for Virginians. VDOF promotes healthy watersheds through the implementation of rigorous silvicultural best management practices, encouraging forest conservation, expanding urban tree canopy, and advocating for the establishment of riparian forest buffers across the state. VDOF has provided technical expertise in the establishment of riparian buffers for over 30 years.
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James River AssociationThe James River Association (JRA) is a member-supported nonprofit organization founded in 1976 to serve as a guardian and voice for the James River. Throughout the James River’s 10,000-square mile watershed, JRA works toward its vision of a fully healthy James River supporting thriving communities. JRA believes that “when you change the James, the James changes you". It is committed to protecting the James River and connecting people to it.
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Program Partnerships
Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Districts
The mission of the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (VASWCD) and its Foundation is to provide and promote leadership in the conservation of natural resources through stewardship and education programs. The VASWCD and its Foundation coordinate conservation efforts statewide to focus effectively on issues identified by local member districts.
Three SWCDs in the Middle James will be working closely with JRA staff on outreach and guidance for agricultural landowners:
Three SWCDs in the Middle James will be working closely with JRA staff on outreach and guidance for agricultural landowners:
Virginia Outdoors Foundation
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The Virginia Outdoors Foundation (VOF) is Virginia’s leader in land conservation, protecting more than 800,000 acres in 107 counties and independent cities. VOF is a public organization, created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1966. Their staff will be working closely with JRA on outreach to VOF easement holders in need of forested riparian buffers.
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A special thanks to the Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund for supporting this website.
This material is based on work supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Assistance Agreement No. CB96358201) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund, which promotes community-based efforts to develop conservation strategies to protect and restore the diverse natural resources of the Chesapeake Bay.
