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