Accepting Applications for the 2014 James River Expeditions

Canoeing through the Allegheny Mountains
 on the Upper James Expedition

JRA’s Education team is gearing up for warm weather and the 2014 James River Expeditions. This year marks the fourth consecutive summer that JRA and the Dominion Foundation have hosted the Expeditions, a series of 8-day journeys that will collectively paddle the 340‐mile length of the James River. This adventure of a lifetime was created to connect young people living within the James River watershed with “their river.” Not only will students be immersed in understanding the health and ecology of the river, but the Expeditions also challenge students mentally and physically, inspiring self-confidence and appreciation for their environment. 

The 2013 Middle James Expedition team preparing 

for the start of their journey in Lynchburg

In order to reach more students than in years past, the 2014 Expeditions will have an open-enrollment application process. Interested rising 10^th and 11^th grade students from any public high school within the James River watershed are encouraged to fill out an application. Never paddled or camped before?  No problem, there is no experience required to participate!

The 2014 Expeditions also offer a different opportunity for teachers as well. JRA is looking for three outstanding high school teachers, one per leg of the Expedition, to assist JRA in leading these floating classrooms down the James River. Teachers will be awarded a stipend and an educational experience that can help with Professional Development requirements.

A Lower James Expedition student learns about energy
while touring the Dominion Nuclear Power Station in Surry, VA

If chosen, you will join a team of 10 students, one teacher and JRA staff.  The Expedition journeys begin at the headwaters of the James River in June and ends at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay in August. These trips immerse students in the rich ecology, beauty and natural history of one of our country’s greatest natural resources, the best way we know how, from the seat of a canoe.

2014 Expedition Dates:

Upper James Expedition: June 21 through June 28

Middle James Expedition: July 12 through July 19

Lower James Expedition: July 26 through August 2

The application deadline for teachers is Friday, February 21, 2014. The student application deadline is Friday, March 14, 2014.

More information about the 2014 James River Expeditions, including applications, can be found at www.JamesRiverAssociation.org/Expedition. We look forward to seeing you on the water! 

Caption:  Canoeing through the Allegheny Mountains on the Upper James Expedition