It Happens

by Ryan Corrigan, JRA's Director of Marketing and Membership

It happens. After all, when you take your best friend on long strolls through the park, sometimes nature calls. Sometimes, in fact, that’s why you’re taking your best friend on a long stroll. And before I go any further let me publicly state I too go on long strolls with my best friend. And nature always calls, which is why the James River Association is encouraging pet owners to “scoop the poop.”

The James River Association has installed 30 pet waste stations throughout City of Richmond parks, the James River Park System and Chesterfield County parks. Thanks to a Department of Environmental Quality grant funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency, it’s now super convenient for pet owners to clean up. This ultimately helps improve the water quality in the James River. How does cleaning up after our pets help the James? Super question.

Pet waste contains high levels of bacteria, such as E. coli, so when it rains, bacteria is washed into local waterways and storm drains making its way into the James River. Bacteria in waterways can negatively impact wildlife and be detrimental to human health. Picking up after our pets is an easy way to reduce this form of pollution.

So next time you’re out on a stroll with your furry friend, please remember to scoop the poop!

By the way, if you’re walking your cat, more power to you.

Volunteering for the James

Andrew Phillips is a 27 year old salesman and a resident of Richmond. He volunteered in July for the Richmond James River Splash & Dash to help out with this fun event and to interact with other people who also share a passion for the river. When he’s not volunteering, Andrew enjoys kayaking, fishing and trail running. When asked why he would encourage others to volunteer, Andrew says it is a great way to meet new people, swap river stories and do something to impact society in a positive way.

Here’s what Andrew had to say about his experience at the James River Splash & Dash:

Volunteering for the Richmond James River Splash & Dash started around 11:00 am for me. Unsure of where to go or who to help, I was quickly approached by another fellow volunteer who asked, “Can you help carry this water jug to the truck?” At that moment it was on. From unloading the stage for the band to helping set up advertisement signs, I felt like I had a significant impact on the preparation for the event. When asked to be the lead for the beer truck, my heart skipped a beat. I have always wondered what it was like to be on the “other side” of the table, and let me tell you, it was a treat! Explaining to fellow volunteers the procedure and system we had in place for the beer truck was empowering. As runners finished their race, my team was instrumental in rewarding them with a tasty libation to fill their gullet.

Volunteering is addicting.

Are you interested in volunteering? If so, visit our volunteer center to learn more!