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