Conservation Tips: Sustainable Snow Removal

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

Before the big snow season hits, make sure you are prepared to clear off that sidewalk or driveway in the greenest way possible.


• The best way is to shovel! It sounds like hard work, but not if you have the right tool. Make sure you get an ergonomic shovel (big shovel with bent handle) or if you want to spend a little extra, try out this new tool, the wovel (big shovel with a wheel)! The tip to successful shoveling is to get out there early and often. You want to shovel before the snow becomes a big block of ice, which will decrease the need for deicer and sand.

• No salt! It is harmful and even deadly for some of your plants, corrosive to cars and other items, tears up the road, and increases salinity in local waterways, which is bad for the underwater plant and animal species that call our rivers home.

• Sand is good if traction is needed, but don’t use too much. It can clog sewers and wash down to streams. Another good option is bird seed, which will keep you standing and also feed the hungry birds.

• Be a good neighbor and avoid using a snow blower. The gas powered ones contribute to air pollution, so if you must use one, go electric. Everyone loves the peace and quiet that a big snowstorm provides, so don’t spoil it with ‘vroooooooooooooooooom!’

• And if all else fails and you need something to get rid of the ice, make sure you choose an eco-friendly ice melt.
 While you are out there shoveling and need something to think about, how about brainstorming on what could be done with all of this frozen water! Strategies for Sustainable Snow Management


For more information:
 Green Space: Sustainable Snow Removal
Tips for Eco-Friendly Snow and Ice Removal
The Rundown on Eco-Friendly Ice Melt

Students from across the watershed learn outside

Students from James River watershed have participated in numerous field programs with JRA this fall. Learning to paddle canoes, identify wildlife and trees, test water sources for dissolved oxygen and other chemical parameters, and sampling for aquatic macroinvertebrates…students get their feet wet and their minds engaged.

What did we catch in the seine net? Students learn that healthy water was diverse inhabitants.



Upper James Riverkeeper Pat Calvert talks water with high school students on the Rivanna Reservoir.

 

Don’t Let Cold Weather Cut Your River Season Short

By Massey Whorley, JRA RiverRat

About this time of year many river enthusiasts put away their boats for the winter. Although not for everyone, in Virginia it’s possible to paddle year-round. In fact, many prefer winter paddling because of the breathtaking scenery and wonderful water conditions. Boating in the winter can be fun (and safe*) if you use the right gear. If you are considering paddling the James this winter, here are some equipment guidelines.

Cotton Kills, Seriously

The number one rule of cold weather sports is avoid cotton at all costs. While cotton feels great, it is a terrible insulator once it gets wet. Leave the cotton at home!

It’s All About Layers

Instead of cotton, use layers of wool or synthetic fabrics, like fleece or polypropylene. These materials will keep you warm if they get wet – and chances are you will get wet. Also, layering keeps you warmer by trapping heat and wicking moisture away from your body. The colder the combined air and water temperature, the more layers you will need.

Wetsuits, Drysuits, and In Between

Options for the outermost layer include wetsuits, drysuits, and dry tops. When the conditions are moderate (combined air and water temperature of 100° F), wetsuits may be sufficient. As the temperature drops, a waterproof exterior layer becomes essential. Drysuits are the gold standard for cold weather boating, since they keep your entire body dry. Since drysuits can be expensive, many paddlers combine dry tops and bibs for a reasonably priced solution.

New Year’s Day 2011 on the James  Paddler: Massey Whorley  Picture: Rich Young

Put On A Hat, Before You Catch Cold

In addition to covering your core, be sure to cover your extremities, especially your head. Wool or fleece hats will work for many situations, but neoprene helmet liners are common, and preferred for whitewater. Neoprene gloves or pogies, (mittens that strap to your paddle), are great for boating. In addition, neoprene booties or wool socks and appropriate shoes will help keep your toes and the rest of your body warm.

*Winter is not the best time to take up paddling. And as with all water sports, winter paddling comes with risk. Those risks can be minimized through appropriate preparation -- like using the buddy system and being prepared for an emergency situation.

Thank you to our Volunteers!

A dedicated core of skilled volunteers have been hard at work completing the Ecology School’s Wetland Walkway.

Volunteers have spent a half dozen days so far this fall working towards the completion of the roof structure for the platform attached to the wetland walkway. Here, groups will gather to learn about the freshwater tidal swamp and marsh that surrounds them for hundreds of acres in all directions. Working through the challenges of inclement weather and a remote site, these volunteers have been giving shape to the vision of the Ecology School. They deserve a big “Thank You!”

Caleb, Rich, and Larry finish framing the roof!

Larry and Gary attach bracing to finalize the roof frame.

Visit our website for more infomation on the James River Ecology School.

JRA RiverRat’s Top 5 Suggestions for Enjoying the River in Winter

Do you get the cold weather blues because it means several months away from the James River? Cheer up! With the right precautions, winter can be a great time to get out on the water. Take a look at these suggestions from JRA’s tough RiverRats.

1. “I follow the 100 rule. The combination of air temperature and water temperature must be over 100 or I don't go on the water.” Kim Payne, Lynchburg

2. “James River trips in the winter are limited to some lower James striper fishing which involves my brother's bass boat and high speed. Ski goggles are a must.” Steve Forrest, Powhatan

3. “I carry a drybag of clothes etc. plus a rescue beacon in case I get marooned on an island.” Joey Klingman, Hopewell

4. “I like breaking ice...A good skirt sure is nice.” Steve Willard, Richmond

5. “While cotton feels great, it is a terrible insulator once it gets wet. Leave the cotton at home!” Massey Whorley, Richmond

Visit our website for more information on the RiverRats program.

JRA Receives Award for Agricultural Videos

The James River Association and other project partners received the 2011 June Sekoll Media Award from the Virginia Chapter Soil and Water Conservation Society for developing a multi-media educational tool that describes Virginia agricultural cost-share programs and illustrates the benefits of installing conservation practices on Virginia farms. The project was funded by Altria and was produced in partnership with the Robert E. Lee SWCD, Piedmont SWCD, Peter Francisco SWCD and videographer Bruce Berryhill.

View the four videos at the following links:

Rainwater Harvesting

Pasture Management and Alternative Energy
Cover Crops and Nutrient Management

Livestock Exclusion and Rotational Grazing

Tires, Tires Everywhere

Here are a few photos that JRA RiverRat Steve Willard, captured while out on his patrol near the mouth of the Appomattox River. He found a ton of tires intertwined with the roots of old uprooted trees and a lot of trash and tires in the water. This site is near where the Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR) collected around 5000 tires this past July. If you see trashy spots like this near your favorite stretch of the James River, or any of its tributaries, please let JRA know. We can also help you organize your own trash cleanup event. Contact us for details. volunteer@jrava.org

Whose Been Here? Identifying Wildlife from Paw Prints

Who left these prints?

A muddy shoreline or a fresh snowfall along the river is all you need to become a wildlife tracker. The next time you’re near a stream or river, see how many different animal tracks you can spot. To help you identify some of the more common animals found in the James River watershed, here’s a simple toe counting guide:

The 4 and 5 rule: Four toes on the front feet and five toes on the back feet means you’re tracking a rodent. It could be a mouse, a squirrel, woodchuck, or muskrat.

The 5 and 5 rule: Five toes on the front and five toes on the back feet could be a raccoon (the paw print above), a skunk, a beaver, an opossum or a member of the weasel family, such as a mink. Or, if it’s really big, a black bear. But don’t confuse a big dog paw print with a bear!

The 4 and 4 rule: Four toes on the front and four toes on the back feet could be a dog, a fox, or a coyote. The tracks could also be made by a member of the cat family, like a bobcat or a neighborhood cat. The four-toed tracks may appear similar, but look for the presence or absence of claw marks with the paw print. Feline paw prints do not have claw prints because members of the cat family have retractable claws that are not used for walking. Canine paw prints have claw prints, as will most other animal prints you’ll find.

Take a walk by the water and see who -- or what -- has been there before you!

Conservation Tips – Be a Responsible Boater

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

Do you love to go out on the James River every chance you get? Whether you have a kayak or a speedboat, you are coming in direct contact with the water and should make sure you have as little impact as possible. Here are a few ideas that are really easy and that you can start today:


• Take your trash off the boat with you and put it in a trash can.

• Do not throw trash overboard or leave it on the ground at a boat landing.

• Recycle your used fishing line by tossing it in monofilament recycling bins that are located at many boat ramps or drop it off at your local marina or tackle shop.

• When you bring out the cleaning supplies make sure you use phosphate-free, bio-degradable, and non-toxic cleaners.

These are just a few of the things that you can do to make sure you are protecting the James River for others to enjoy for generations to come. Take a look at the links below for more information on how you can be a more responsible boater.

Clean boating tips Click Here

Map of monofilament recycling sites in Virginia Click Here

Monofilament Recycling Program Click Here

Volunteer Tree Planting

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

The James River Association worked with Friends of Bryan Park and the City of Richmond Department of Parks and Recreation to lead 18 dedicated Altria volunteers in a day of tree planting and cleanup on Tuesday, November 8^th at Bryan Park. This warm and colorful fall day started with a lesson from Norm Brown, arborist with Richmond Urban Forestry, on the correct way to plant a tree. Volunteers then headed out to plant 35 trees throughout the park to replace trees that were lost during Hurricane Irene, to provide more native trees along Princeton Creek and help buffer noise from the interstate.  After lunch some of the volunteers headed down to Jordan’s Branch for a trash cleanup. Some cleared debris from the park’s famous azalea gardens, while others finished up mulching and watering the new trees that were planted. A total of 11 bags of trash and 2 tires were collected. Thanks to Altria for all of their hard work and dedication in supporting projects that help restore the health of the James River.

On the River

By Sarah Barnett, JRA RiverRat

As August 2011 was coming to a close a group of 18 far flung friends from Richmond, Lynchburg, Washington D.C. and several other cities descended on Appomattox VA to paddle a section of the James River. We put in at Glasgow where the Maury River dumps into the James River and took out just before the dam. The main attraction for our group would be mid day in the trip going over the rapids at Balcony Falls. Our group of enthusiasts ranged in age from 23 to 61 with all levels of paddling experience. We had someone who had guided on the Gauley, a few folks who had never been on a boat other than a cruise ship, and all experience levels in between. Our group members were using all varieties of boats including sea kayaks, whitewater kayaks, and canoes. Since we wanted everyone to enjoy themselves it seemed the August lower water levels would be just right.

Unfortunately a footbridge was washed out so to get the boats to the river access we had to hand them across a streambed. Way to go guys!

From the beginning we knew the float would be fantastic. We had great weather and the water was perfect.

We stopped for lunch just above Balcony Falls. Wadding down to the rocks beside Balcony Falls we wanted to scout the rapids ahead of time and make sure everyone knew the best line to run.

Despite the varying ages and abilities everyone in our group made it down the rapids successfully without tipping over or falling out of their boat. We did have experienced safety boaters on hand just in case.

Later in the day we stopped to enjoy jump rock for those who wanted to take a plunge into the river from a few feet higher. Here we saw a water snake with bright orange markings sunning itself. We didn’t bother the snake and the snake didn’t bother us.


Interested in becoming a James River RiverRat?  Visit our website for more information!

Top 5 Gifts for a River Lover

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

Thinking of the perfect gift can be a tough task. Here are a few foolproof items that anyone who enjoys the outdoors and the James River would love to have. These gifts will help your River Lover enjoy the outdoors even during the cooler months. What’s great is that you can find any of these for under $30!

1. Wool socks: These are a necessary item in keeping your feet warm, comfortable, and dry. Favorite brand? SmartWool

2. Vacuum drink bottle: Everyone needs something to carry their hot drink with them when they head outdoors during the cooler months. Make sure you find one that is stainless steel, leak proof, not too big, and will keep their drink warm for hours. Favorite brand? Thermos or Stanley

3. Dry bag: Perfect for boaters, hikers, and campers. These handy bags help keep your stuff dry in case of a rain storm or just in case you turn over your boat. There are lots of brands and sizes out there, so find the one that fits your needs. Favorite brand? SealLine

4. Hand warmers: Great for those who don’t let the cold weather keep them indoors. Whether they are out at the break of dawn hunting, going on a backpacking trip, or out fly fishing in the snow, these will keep their hands and feet toasty! Favorite brand? Lots of stores sell packs of single use warmers like HotHands or Grabber Warmers. You can also get reusable ones such as the Zippo Hand Warmer.

5. Book: The right book can get them out to places they have never been before, teach them something new, or give them photos to look through while they are stuck indoors. Some great books on the James River are: James River Reflections by Will Daniel and The River Where America Began: A Journey along the James by Bob Deans. The James River Guide: Fishing and Floating on Virginia’s Finest by Bruce Ingram is a good choice for those who like to get out on the water. For the hikers out there we’d recommend Hiking Virginia: A Guide to Virginia’s Greatest Hiking Adventures by Bill and Mary Burnham.

Volunteers Devote a Day to Construction on Presquile NWR

by Anna Salzberg, JRA's Outreach Intern

October 26, 2011 was a beautiful sunny day for the 8 volunteers working on the wetlands walkway that will be part of the new James River Ecology School at Presquile National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). Presquile NWR is a 1329-acre island in the James River, located approximately 20 miles south of Richmond, Virginia and is one of four refuges that comprise the Eastern Virginia Rivers National Wildlife Refuge Complex. The volunteers gained a unique experience by visiting the NWR, since it is not open to the public without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The USFWS is currently working with JRA to establish the Ecology School on Presquile NWR in adherence with the USFWS Compatibility Determination and Comprehensive Conservation Plan.

Volunteers included some folks from the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the National Park Service, retired carpenters with good hearts, and a couple journalists that did not mind working hard for a good cause. This group of volunteers with diverse backgrounds and skills met at the dock across the river from Presquile NWR around 9 am. Following brief introductions, a pontoon boat traversed the James to deliver the volunteer workers and supplies to the unloading dock at Presquile. Supplies were then carried up the hill to the main construction area.

After a quick tour of the Ecology school building currently under construction and an approximate one-mile walk across the island to the wetland walkway, construction efforts were quickly underway. The main efforts on this particular day included installing tiles in the curving sections of the 557-foot boardwalk. Tiles were also transported to the gazebo area where they will be installed in the near future. All-in-all, the day resulted in productive construction and networking for all involved (not to mention the yummy lunch served by JRA). JRA continues to need volunteers to further the construction progress, so please check out the upcoming Volunteer Work Days included on the JRA website calendar. Please contact Gabe Silver at gsilver@jrava.org or (804) 788-8811 ext. 214 to sign up. JRA would love to see you there!

James River Expedition Highlight on Virginia Currents

We’re still talking about how much fun we had during our James River Expedition last summer. Students from across Virginia were able to learn about how important our river is, thanks to a generous grant from the Dominion Foundation. Tune into Virginia Currents on PBS tonight at 8 p.m. to watch a segment on the project!

Virginia Currents
The James River Expedition

RiverRats Raft-Up

On October 15^th the James River Association (JRA) held their 1^st Annual RiverRats Raft-Up, a volunteer appreciation event.  The RiverRats patrol the James River and its tributaries and to take action to protect and restore the watershed. They are a huge support to the two James River Riverkeepers, Pat Calvert and Chuck Frederickson, by having more eyes on the river.



Pat Calvert, Upper James Riverkeeper



The group gathered at Flower Camp, located near Howardsville in the foothills of Virginia. The day started off with a keynote speech from Jeff Corbin, Senior Advisor to U.S. EPA Administrator for the Chesapeake Bay and the Anacostia River that stressed the importance of citizen science. Then Bill Street, the Executive Director for the JRA, gave an update on the state of the James River. Calvert and Frederickson led hands on training on benthic invertebrates and underwater grasses.

After lunch, some of the group went on a short float from Flower Camp to Howardsville while others hiked around Flower Camp. That evening the group watched a slideshow by Will Daniel, author of James River Reflections, and listened to a talk by Bob Deans, author of The River Where America Began.  Several RiverRats were given awards for going above and beyond the call of duty.  The day ended with talks around the bonfire.

Some stayed through Sunday and joined Calvert on a float from the James River WMA down to Flower Camp.  Overall it was a great weekend filled with education, inspiration, and pure fun with a group of people sharing a love of the James River.  Thank you RiverRats!

Boys and Girls Club Camping Trip

By Jessica Templeton, JRA’s Ecology School Manager

This past weekend a group of eleven 6th through 9th graders and a courageous adult leader from the Hopewell Boys and Girls Club joined the James River Association for a couple of beautiful fall days of camping (many for the first time!) at Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield County. Saturday was a busy day spent enjoying the outdoors and learning new skills: how to set up a tent, how to fish, and how to paddle a canoe.

The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries donated a dozen fishing poles and supplies to the fishing experience through their tackle loaner program. The weather was a bit windy, but sunny and warm. The group introduced themselves to the volunteers leading the fishing experience, in which names were associated with an animal. This is when it was discovered that Paco is the Penguin because he is “cool”. Following introductions, the whole group met at Swift Creek to grab some bait and see what fish were out there. Turns out there wasn’t much out that day besides smiles and laughter, but with the sun beaming down and a cool wind blowing; it was just as pleasant an experience as reeling in a school of fish.

As with any good camping trip, our evening was capped with a campfire and s’mores. Despite initial hesitations from some of the campers about roasting sticks pulled from the ground, “how do you know the stick isn’t dirty?,” campers didn’t hesitate to go back for two or three more before putting out our campfire for the night.

Sunday morning our very sleepy and slightly shivering group braved a hike with the sunrise on one of Pocahontas’ many hiking trails. A few of us were lucky enough to catch a majestic looking Great Blue Heron fly across Swift Creek Lake while the lake was still misting from the cool morning air. It was a peaceful and inspiring moment. This camping program was developed to connect youth with nature and inspire feelings of comfort and confidence in the outdoors. When asked who would like to go camping again, it was less than a second before every hand went up in the air. Even though this was a first camping trip for many, it certainly looks like it won’t be their last!

Conservation Tips: Fall Gardening for Wildlife

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

Here’s a tip that will actually save you time and energy! While you are out in your garden this fall cleaning up, don’t cut everything back or rake every leaf up! By being a little less tidy, you can do your part in providing valuable habitat for our critters in the James River watershed.

Many perennials and ornamental grasses provide homes and food for wildlife throughout the winter. For example, birds love the seedheads on Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), so leave some of them uncut and you just might see a Goldfinch come to feed on the seeds. Then in late winter/early spring trim them back to allow for new growth to come up. You may find that your garden takes on a special beauty during the winter, now that there is some structure left behind.

Before you pull out the blower and the rake, find some areas that you wouldn’t mind having some leaves on the ground. By leaving layers of leaves in your flower beds, they will provide your plants with nutrients and will protect their roots from the cold winter. You can then cover them up in the spring with mulch. Many critters call leaf litter their home like salamanders, frogs, various eggs of butterflies and other insects.

For more information:
http://www.beautifulwildlifegarden.com/autumn-cleanup-wildlife-garden.html
http://www.northcoastgardening.com/2010/11/fall-leaf-raking/
http://nativeplantwildlifegarden.com/untidy-wildlife-gardens/
http://nativeplantwildlifegarden.com/step-away-from-that-leaf-blower/
http://www.ecosystemgardening.com/life-in-the-leaf-litter-dont-throw-a-good-thing-away.html

A Tire-some Venture

RiverRat, John Mays sent this report about a cleanup in the Upper James:

How many river tires can fit into a 30-yard dumpster? Well at least 190. That is the final count of tires collected from a river cleanup effort on the Upper James River that was held on October 8, 2011.

Members of the Upper James River Water Trail committee organized a river clean up and covered a 15-mile stretch of river in search of any and all trash that could be removed. The big culprit this year was tires that have been deposited along different stretches of the Upper James River by floods over the years.

This was the third year of river cleanup efforts lead by Twin River Outfitters, with the logistical help of the Botetourt County Parks and Recreation & Landfill departments, who help with properly disposing of the collected river trash. We got more tires this year than the last two years combined. This year we collected 190 tires, and 2 small dump truck beds of trash. Notable items included several chairs, a barrel, 2 bikes, air conditioner, clothing items, and a fiberglass Jon boat with lots of holes in it. The volunteer group concentrated its cleanup efforts over a stretch of the James River from the Springwood boat landing to Alpine.

A partial list of river cleanup volunteers included: Roger Sillmon, Susan Sillmon, Tyler Kern, Sam Baker, Kendal Moyer, John Besher, Karen Busher, Byron Busher, Kayla Beckner, Joseph Obeshai, John Mays, Dan Mays, Michael Denton, James Manuel and Mathew Fischer.

This was truly a team effort. Special thanks to all those that helped advertise this clean up event, coordinated the removal of the debris to local land fills, and those that did the river removal work.

Thanks again to all those that helped keep our river looking great. Interested in helping out next year? We have already set next year's river clean up date for Saturday October 6, 2012. To volunteer, contact John and Dan Mays of Twin River Outfitters, 653 Lowe Street, Buchanan, Virginia, 24066. Email tro@canoevirginia.net or phone the office at 540-261-7334.

Wildlife of the James - The Virginia Big-Eared Bat

by Angie Williams, JRA's Events and Development Assistant

As Halloween grows near and people search out for ghosts and ghouls, one favorite fluttering treat is the occasional sight of a bat in the evening. Despite Hollywood’s attempt to create a fearsome façade there is nothing to fear from any of Virginia’s native bat species, unless, of course, you are a moth.

The Virginia Big-eared bat is Virginia’s state bat, and is considered federally and state endangered. Ranging from pale to dark brown this medium sized bat is native to southwestern Virginia as they prefer caves in Karst regions (areas with limestone bedrock) and hibernate in tight cluster near the entrances of caves that are well ventilated. They get their namesake from their characteristic ears, generally more than an inch long, which are large compared to their 3 to 4 inch body. Adding to their unique gothic appearance they have large glands on each side of their muzzle.

Human disturbance is one of the largest factors contributing to the demise of these bats. Disturbing bats during hibernation can cause them to lose fat reserves, drop their young and after repeated disturbances, even death. Another threat to this already endangered animal is the poorly understood White-Nose Syndrome. This is identified by a characteristic white fungus that forms around the muzzle of many species of bats, and causes erratic behavior. Already having killed over one million bats in the United States, this syndrome is considered “worst wildlife health crisis in memory”.

Virginia Big Eared Bat:
http://www.biology.eku.edu/bats/vabigearbat.htm
Virginia’s State Bat

White Nose Syndrome:
http://www.fws.gov/whitenosesyndrome/about.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_nose_syndrome

Meet a RiverRat: David Bernard

The James River Association’s RiverRats are helping our Riverkeepers keep watch over the James River and its tributaries. Meet some of the RiverRats through a monthly highlight on JRA’s blog. Their dedication, passion, and local knowledge are crucial in creating a healthier James River.

David Bernard is a semi-retired plumbing contractor who grew up playing in a tributary of the Appomattox River called Lieutenant Run. An active canoeist, he learned to paddle at Balcony Falls and loves to canoe the downtown stretch of the James.

David became a RiverRat in order to learn how to help keep the river he loves clean. His patrol section is Bernard’s Creek, a small tributary that runs along the Chesterfield/Powhatan County border. The name of the creek intrigued him, although he doesn’t believe there is a family tie. Bernard’s Creek is considered impaired once it enters the James and David wanted to know why. On his patrol he discovered that cattle from a large farm have access to the creek.

David said, “I launched my canoe on March 11 at Huguenot Springs Road bridge after a big rain. Bernard’s Creek is about fifteen feet wide there. Later I went back with Upper James Riverkeeper, Pat Calvert, by paddling upstream from Robius Landing. Patrolling a small stream requires frequent carries over logs. I had to lift the canoe over logs 18 times on the March 11 trip! Pat and I had to carry over logs at least twice just exploring the lower part.”

According to David, the best part of being a RiverRat is learning how to look for and report pollution while adventuring on a stream or river. He would encourage anyone who loves the river to become a River Rat because, “the James River and tribs need all the help they can get and you will have fun exploring your own section.”

For more information on the RiverRats program visit http://jrava.org/get-involved/volunteer/riverrats or contact volunteer@jrava.org.

Top 5 LID Projects in the James River Watershed

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

First off, what is LID? It stands for Low Impact Development, which is an approach to development that uses innovative stormwater management techniques and works with the existing hydrology and conditions, as much as possible, so that it will have little impact on the site. You may be thinking this doesn’t sound like the most interesting topic, but take a look at some of these top examples that have been incorporated into landscapes across the James River watershed and you may be singing a different tune. Make a trip to visit some of these sites and come home inspired with a new way to view the landscape and water around you.

1. John Paul Jones Arena at the University of Virginia: Throughout the parking area and around the building you will see biofiltration areas that capture and filter the stormwater.

2. ‘Green Street’ along Capitol Street at Capitol Square, Richmond: Take a walk along the sidewalk and you will see rain gardens along the street that capture and filter stormwater.

3. Riverfront Park and Jefferson Street, Lynchburg: There is a variety of LID practices throughout this site. Take a look at the permeable pavers in the parking area and the series of rain gardens within the parking islands that capture the stormwater. There is also a large linear rain garden that you can walk over along the pedestrian bridges.

4. RiverBluff Conservation Community, Charlottesville: This neighborhood incorporates a series of rains gardens that collect and filter the stormwater. Many of the homes also have rainwater harvesting systems.

5. Conservation Garden at the Virginia Living Museum: Here you can see green roofs in action and take a walk through the garden to see the use of native plantings. The building incorporates rain barrels and cisterns to collect stormwater.

For more information about LID:

http://www.lowimpactdevelopment.org/index.html

http://www.epa.gov/owow/NPS/lid/

Paddle at Presquile

First Paddle at Presquile, September 25, 2011; An early fall excursion with a group of 11 Richmonders of all ages

By Gabe Silver, JRA's Environmental Educator,  Photography courtesy of Patrick Wamsley

Expecting a September rain shower to descend on us at any moment, we embark across the lower James River near Hopewell by pontoon boat to explore Presquile National Wildlife Refuge in a new way. Under an overcast sky, we motor slowly, pushed along by a strong incoming tide, spotting great blue heron, great white egret, double-breasted cormorant, and bald eagle. We are hoping to see the rare, jolting surprise of the lower James in spring and fall - the Atlantic sturgeon leaping out of the water - but the river surface yields only the ripples of the light breeze.

Arriving at the island, we set off hiking across the upland fields and towards the recently constructed wetland walkway. The goldenrod is blooming, blanketing the wide vistas of old field habitat in yellow. Looking closer at this feast for the eyes, we spot beautiful monarch butterflies making a more literal feast of the pervasive blossom.

Moving from the upland field into the hardwood tidal swamp, we shift worlds. The pulsing call of insects surrounds us while we walk under the canopy of wetland forest. On either side of the boardwalk, dozens of species of plants like arrow arum, pickerelweed and wild rice make up a fall abundance of foliage, flowers and seeds. After a quick break, we launch canoes onto the narrow creek and weave our way towards the river. Finding passage around trees brought down by Hurricane Irene, we paddle down the meandering creek against the faintest hint of an incoming tide.

Soon we are in for a real treat. A barred owl sits just off the creek, perhaps waiting for a noonday meal to come scampering through the swamp. The owl’s camouflage is very good, and despite its size and proximity, it takes some time before the whole party sets eyes on the bird.

Saying goodbye to the owl, we find our way to the mouth of the creek. Back to the broad river, we explore the shoreline and raft the canoes together for a lunch adjacent to a marsh. A leisurely canoe-based meal is always nice, and our dining room can’t be beat, surrounded by wildflowers and water.

Soon it is time to return up the creek, stow the canoes, and hike back to the boat. A canoe full of spiders descending from an overhanging branch into the errant boat of two young fellows doesn’t stop us, and soon we are back on solid ground. We have paddled about 3 miles and hiked for 2 by the time we are back aboard the pontoon boat. The James has one last treat for us, as we watch a mature bald eagle chase a juvenile eagle across the river minutes before we hit the beach and our day is ended.

Secrets of the James - Where does the James River Begin?

by Judith Warrington, JRA's Communications Coordinator

Jackson River near Hidden Valley

One of the most frequently asked questions about the James is: Where does the river begin? Many of America’s great rivers can trace their origin to mountain ranges where they are fed by snowmelt or upland streams. The James also begins in the mountains where it claims the heritage of two other beautiful rivers. 

This mountain topography plays a major role in all rivers and in Virginia the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Front determine the direction in which its upland rivers flow. For the past 2 million years, the James River has been carrying bits of those mountains downriver, eastward to the Chesapeake Bay.

It is near the small Botetourt County town of Iron Gate, on the farm where brothers Charles and Clyde Gibson’s family has lived for generations that the James River begins, with the confluence of the Jackson and the Cowpasture Rivers. In his book, James River Reflections, author Will Daniel describes the birth of the James as seen from the air this way: “the Cowpasture River has a pure greenish color that contrasts sharply to the brown, muddy appearance of the Jackson River. Where they combine to form the James, the colors remain separated, green to the north side and muddy brown on the south side, for a mile or so downriver until they eventually merge,” Everyone should have such colorful relatives!

From its beginning in Botetourt County to Hampton Roads where it flows into the Chesapeake Bay, the James is a ribbon of history. It is called American’s Founding River because our nation began on its banks at the Jamestown settlement, but it is truly Virginia’s river, because the entire river, from its source to its mouth, is located within the state.

In 2009, Richmond Times Dispatch reporter, Rex Springston, wrote a profile of Botetourt County. You can read his article and see a photo essay of the source of the James River here.

RiverRats Come to the River’s Rescue

JRA and its James Riverkeepers are recruiting more RiverRats, the James River’s first line of citizen defense. And you could be one.

RiverRats is a volunteer program that enlists individuals to patrol a chosen section of the James River and its tributaries. The purpose of the program is to put additional eyes on the river to document potential sources of pollution, report on river hydrology and wildlife sightings. It’s the perfect opportunity for someone who loves the outdoors to take the extra step to protect a favorite waterway. A scientific background is not required and both training and water testing equipment are provided.

JRA has held RiverRat training sessions in Newport News, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Buchanan and a total of 39 RiverRats have been trained and are now on patrol. There are currently 28 RiverRats patrolling above the fall line and seven patrolling below the fall line, and more are needed. RiverRats are now covering 39 percent of the main stem of the James River. The goal is to have 100% of the river covered within the next five years.

If you’re interest in becoming a RiverRat, the next training session will be held in Williamsburg on November 5. An addition session will be held in the middle of the watershed on February 25 to fill the gaps within the main stem of the James. Check the JRA website for updates on this session. After the main stem is covered, trainings will begin to recruit volunteers to cover the major tributaries, such as the Chick hominy, Appomattox, Cow pasture, Jackson, and Maury Rivers.

Each training session includes a presentation on the State of the James that highlights the importance of the RiverRat program within the greater context of river health. Participants get an overview of the program, what is expected of them, and what JRA has to offer. They learn how to conduct a patrol and how to recognize and respond to pollution or other issues that may arise on their patrols. Working with JRA’s Riverkeepers they receive hands-on experience in taking water samples. The last portion of the training session focuses on the RiverRat Action Project, a project or event they’ll conduct that promotes the protection of a waterway in their local community. The session wrap ups by going over next steps and a discussion of which section each new RiverRat wants to cover. Then they head out with their new hat, manual, and patrol kit as a new JRA RiverRat.

By helping JRA keep watch over our waterways and inspiring their neighbors to choose clean water, RiverRats play a vital role in protecting and restoring America’s Founding River. Think you’d make a good RiverRat? Then sign up for our next training session on November 5. For more information about the RiverRats program visit the RiverRats website or contact Amber Ellis at volunteer@jrava.org or 804-788-8811 ext. 205.

Brown's Island Trash Cleanup

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

A big thank you to all the volunteers who came out to JRA's Brown’s Island Trash Cleanup on September 17^th! Thanks also to our partners Clean VA Waterways for cleaning up Belle Isle on the same day! This event was part of the 26^th Annual International Coastal Cleanup.   The chilly and overcast weather did not deter our volunteers from coming out to help clean up the James River. We had 33 volunteers, kids and adults, that collected 8 FULL bags of trash and 8 FULL bags of recycling! There were also a few interesting finds like a bicycle wheel, patio chair cushion, fireworks, and an anchor. At first glance the island looked trash free, but as we moved to the east end of the island and along the Pipeline Trail we found plenty of trash. We even had two dedicated volunteers who waded through the water to get to one of the beach islands at the popular swimming spot in front of Tredegar.

Conservation Tips - Fall is the Time to Plant

by Amber Ellis, JRA's Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

The hours of daylight are getting shorter and the temperatures are getting cooler, a sure sign that fall is almost here! Anyone with a garden will be heading outside to clean up their garden for the winter. What you may not know is that this is also the best time to transplant and install new plants, especially trees and shrubs. Some perennials would rather be divided in spring, so just make sure you check before you start digging.

Take some time to walk through your garden and make note of things you would like to transplant to a new area or areas that you may want to plant something new. By planting in the fall, you will conserve water as plants are using less water because photosynthesis is slowed by the shorter days and the sun and heat are not stressing the plants. By planting in the fall, you will give the plants time to establish a healthy root system and they will emerge in the spring as stronger plants. Need another reason? Plant sales! Many nurseries and garden centers offer discounts on plants during the fall to encourage fall planting and to clear out their inventory.

Fall Planting in Virginia
Falls’ a Good Time to Move Perennials
Shrubs: Functions, Planting, and Maintenance
Planting Trees

Wildlife of the James - Golden Garden Spider

Not an Itsy-Bitsy Spider! Meet the Golden Garden Spider

by Jessica Templeton, JRA Ecology School Manager

One of the local spiders whose appearance just might stop you in your tracks is the Golden Garden Spider, or the Black-and-yellow Argiope (Argiope aurantia). The large, black spider with conspicuous yellow coloration on its abdomen can be spotted around the James River from your backyard garden to shrubby brush around the river banks.

You can spot the spider adorning its spiraling web during the daytime. It is usually positioned in the center of the web, facing downward towards the ground. The web is almost more eye catching then the brightly-colored spider with thick white zigzag patterns that vertically span the height of the spider’s orb.

There is much debate in the scientific world about why the Argiope would spend the extra energy and resources necessary to build these seemingly extraneous patterns, named stabilimenta. Originally thought to provide extra stability to the web, from which they originally received their name, this theory has since been dismissed. One study from Ohio State University suggests that the stabilimenta serve a defensive purpose, making their webs more visible to birds who may otherwise fly through and damage their creation (Oxford Journals). Recent studies also suggest that the zigzag patterns in the web may help reflect ultraviolet light acting as an effective predation tool to attract insects to their web (American Wetland Resources) While the intent is still unclear, Argiope do not always build stabilimenta into their web, suggesting that there is significant cost associated with the design that the benefits need to outweigh.

Even though the Garden Spider can be intimidating by appearance, it is a harmless bit of wildlife on the James. If startled, they will vibrate their web to make themselves appear more intimidating (Desert USA). If this doesn’t work, the spider will quickly drop off of its web and onto the ground in pursuit of a good hiding spot. Next time you spot a Garden Spider, put your mind at ease and take a moment to consider what purpose you think its distinctly patterned web may serve.