Top 10 Apps for River Users by the James River Association's RiverRats

Many of us go out on the river or into the woods to get away from technology, but these days most of us take our Smartphone with us. Below are JRA’s RiverRats favorite apps that make their trip safe, educational, and fun!

•  3D Compass: This App places a lat long and map on all pictures that you take and serves as a compass. Mike Easingwood, RiverRat
•  Fishings Spots: Use this to let others do the work for you & know where the fishing holes are! Isaac Nolte, RiverRat
• Google Earth: This is a website and an App. It allows you to scope out an area before your trip or to track where you are and get coordinates while you are out. Lynn Wilson and Isaac Nolte, RiverRats
•  Pocket Ranger, Official VA State Parks Guide: Use this to learn more about where you’re headed if it’s a State Park. Isaac Nolte and James C. Shaver, Jr., RiverRats
• Sibley Birds: This is a great App to take out with you to identify birds. Lynn Wilson, RiverRat. Another option if you are looking for a great beginner bird id app for free, try out Merlin Bird ID. Just answer a few questions about the bird you are trying to identify and this App will give you some possible matches. James C. Chaver, Jr., RiverRat
• Simple Tides: Great for paddling parts of the tidal James River watershed. This app allows you to view the tide chart and weather for your chosen location. Isaac Nolte, RiverRat
• VA Tree ID:  The app includes information on over 900 woody plants in Virginia and also uses GPS to narrow down possible species for where you are located. James C. Chaver Jr., RiverRat
• VA DGIF Hunt Fish VA: Use this to hopefully figure out the rules and regulations before you reel one in! Isaac Nolte, RiverRat
•  Water Reporter: If you live anywhere in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, this App allows you to report good and bad things you may see. Pat Calvert, Upper James Riverkeeper
• Weather Channel: Simple weather App that lets you view hourly forecasts and radar. Lynn Wilson, RiverRat

If you want to browse other Apps that fellow outdoorsmen recommend, check out these links:

Top 11 Mobile Apps for Fishing

Boucher’s Birding Blog: Apps for the Smart Birder

The 25 Best Outdoor iPhone Apps

Top 5 Plants for Birds this Winter

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

Yellow-Rumped Warbler

Native trees and shrubs that produce berries are a must-have in your garden. Not only do they provide visual interest during the dreary winter, but by adding one or several of the plants below, you can help provide much needed nourishment for birds that stick around for the colder months. Plants were selected based on value to the birds, aesthetics, fruiting season, and general plant availability.

 Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): This evergreen tree is easy to find and comes in a variety of different varieties. They are very tolerant and are easy to grow. Birds do not love the berries as much as others, but that makes it even more important! These berries will still be available after everything else has been picked over in late winter.  

American Robin

 Holly (Ilex spp.): Hollies are very easy to find and come in varieties of trees and shrubs, mostly evergreen, but there are a few deciduous such as Winterberry (Ilex verticillata). Some of the best evergreen holly shrubs are Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria) and Inkberry (Ilex glabra). American Holly (Ilex opaca) is a native tree that is a great addition as a specimen tree or within a woodland garden. The berries are poisonous to humans, but birds love them!

Southern Bayberry (Myrica cerifera): This is a large shrub or small tree and is pretty common at nurseries. They are very easy to grow and the fragrant evergreen foliage provides shelter for birds. The berries are enjoyed by many species of birds and provide much needed fat and fiber in the winter.

Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina): This type of Sumac is a large deciduous shrub or small tree and is available at some nurseries. There are various native types of Sumac, but this one is the most commonly available. They are beautiful in the fall and the foliage has an almost tropical look. It will form colonies, so is not suitable for small gardens, but would be great if you have a large space to fill. The berries form in large cone clusters and are preferred by many types of birds in the winter.

Viburnum (Viburnum spp.): There are many varieties of Viburnums and almost all of them are great additions to the home landscape. They come in various heights, have beautiful blooms, and the berries come in reds and blues. Two of the best and most available are Southern Arrowwood (Viburnum dentatum) and Highbush Cranberry (Viburnum trilobum).

Northern Cardinal

Berries aren’t the only type of food that can be provided. Seedheads from grasses and perennials can also be a great source. This could include not cutting back your Black-Eyed Susan’s or Switchgrass until late winter/early spring. Remember, whether it is winter, spring, summer, or fall birds always need the three basic essentials: food, water and shelter.  In addition to planting one of the above, make sure to provide shelter (brush piles, dead trees, evergreen trees, etc.) and water (heated bird bath).

Other Resources

This Winter, Give a Bird a Berry

A Garden for All

10 Berries that Birds Love
Birds in the Winter Wildlife Garden

2014 Highlights

By Justin Doyle, JRA’s Outreach Manager

Despite the train derailment and oil spill in Lynchburg on April 30^th, 2014 was generally a good year for the James River. While reflecting on 2014 I decided to have some fun and highlight the more memorable moments from this past year.

Museum Exhibits

Three wonderful river-related exhibits opened in museums across the James River watershed this year:     

•  Experience The James: Lynchburg’s Pathway to the World opened at the Lynchburg Museum in June
•  “Working and Racing on The Bay: The Chesapeake Log Canoe,” curated by The Mariner’s Museum in Newport News, opened at Jamestown Settlement in September
• Richmond’s The Valentine reopened to the public in October after extensive renovations. The James River is featured in the museum’s permanent exhibit This is Richmond, Virginia.

New Public River Access Sites

New public river access sites opened on the James River in the Town of Glasgow, on the Jackson River in the Town of Clifton Forge, and on the Chickahominy River at the Grapevine Bridge in eastern Henrico County! The success of all three projects is attributed to strong community support and the collaborative work of many partners.

Terrain360 Virtual Tour of the James River

This virtual tour of the James River is the first of its kind. All 340+ miles of the river were captured by an array of six cameras attached to a raft that floated from the Town of Clifton Forge to the mouth of the James River at the Chesapeake Bay.

Richmond Riverfront Plan

JRA and its partners led another successful advocacy effort to ensure implementation of the Richmond Riverfront plan progressed in 2014. Nearly $10M has been appropriated to the implementation, specifically the construction of the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, in recent years. The bridge will connect the north and south banks of the river and accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists. JRA publicly thanked Mayor Jones and City Council for their support of the plan at the James River Splash and Dash in July.

Our River at Risk

JRA launched an advocacy campaign titled “Our River at Risk” to protect the James River from toxic threats including rail transport, chemical storage, and coal ash storage ponds. To get involved in this campaign to protect the James River, join JRA’s Advocacy Network. Visit www.riveratrisk.org to learn more.

Top 5 Overnight Paddles on the James River

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

Summer time is upon us and what better way to enjoy the long days then to go for an overnight weekend paddle trip! Below are a few that our JRA RiverRats and staff have recommended as their top picks. They are listed in order from the headwaters to the middle James.

Please remember to stay safe on the river, and check river level conditions before you head out: jrava.org/jrw/

1.     Iron Gate to Eagle Rock: This is a 14 mile trip that starts at the Iron Gate boat launch below Route 220, just a mile below the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture River (aka the start of the James River!).  It’s a beautiful stretch that is surrounded by mountains, rocky bluffs, and contains Class I and II rapids. The first stretch from Iron Gate to Gala is 10 miles and camping is available at Gala River Front Campground. Day 2 is a 4 mile stretch, which has several of Class I rapids. The take out is at the DGIF Craig Creek access at Eagle Rock. To see pictures Click Here.

2.     Glen Maury Park to Snowden:  This roughly 15 mile trip starts in Buena Vista at Glen Maury Park. The put in is at the park on river right across the 10th St bridge. The paddle begins on the Maury River and ends on the James, winding through lush green mountains. It is for the more experienced paddler and goes through Class I, II, and III rapids including Balcony Falls. The camping area is just before Balcony Falls on river right and is on property owned by the National Forest Service. Many folks consider this the best camping spot on the James! Get a good rest and go through Balcony Falls on day 2. Take out is at Snowden on river left right after these Class III rapids.

3.     Bent Creek to Wingina:  This 14.5 mile trip is great for all levels of paddlers as it passes through easy Class I and II rapids. This section is filled with islands and you will see quite a bit of tubers as well. The put in is at Bent Creek at the Route 60 bridge with camping 7 miles downriver at James River State Park on river right. On day 2 head out and go another 7 miles to the take out at Wingina at the Route 56 bridge. Click here for a more detailed description.

4.     Howardsville to Bremo Bluff: This is a 25 mile stretch that could be broken into a smaller trip such as or Howardsville to Scottsville or Scottsville to Bremo, or any other combination. This stretch contains some Class I and II rapids. You can camp on either side of the river in Scottsville and enjoy a night walking through town. This is a favorite stretch by several of JRA’s RiverRats.  A local outfitter out of Scottsville, James River Reeling and Rafting, offers trips if this is your first overnight or if you don’t own a boat. Click Here for a more detailed description of the trip.

5.     Cartersville to Maidens: This is about a 17 mile stretch with the put in at the Cartersville boat landing. It’s a very easy stretch with flatwater and the characteristic rolling hills of the piedmont region. There are a few Class I riffles, but is a great option for beginners or fisherman. Camping is at Powhatan State Park at their new canoe-in campground.

If you are looking at some other options or more information, visit the links below.

Upper James Water Trail

JRA’s Guide to Overnight Float Trips on the James River

Canoeing in Virginia - James River

Top 5 Gifts for Rising River Lovers

It’s that time of year again to find gifts for our little critters! If you are a river lover yourself, your child has a good chance at becoming one too. Here are a few gift ideas to get your rising river lover out into nature to have fun, stay dry and warm, and maybe learn a few things too!

     WATER BOTTLE: A water bottle is a great gift to teach your child how to be friendlier to the environment by reusing their bottle instead of buying bottled water. There are some fun designs for kids out there. Check out these bottles by Camelbak.

CLOSED TOE SANDALS: These keep their little toes safe, but still allow them to walk in the river and hop through rain puddles! Keen has a wide variety of colors and styles for kids.

LONG UNDERWEAR: Cold weather doesn’t keep river lovers indoors and keeping your child nice and cozy with long underwear while on a short winter hike is important.

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD): Keeping your child safe while they are on the water is the most important thing. REI has tips on finding the right one. 

BOOKS: There's a great new book called ABC’s from the James River, With Love and the author’s are donating 20% of the sales to the James River Association! Please order your books via www.dementibooks.com . When you get to the checkout screen, please enter the coupon code: JRA. Another fun book for kids is Camp Out: The Ultimate Kids Guide from the Backyard to the Backwoods. 

And don’t forget to get them something FUN! Okay, so this one is silly, but check out these Chameleon goggles! These goggles will teach your child about how other creatures see the world a bit differently.

Top 10 Inspirational Nature Quotes from James River Ecology School Students

by Jessica Templeton, JRA Education Manager

The James River Ecology School on Presquile National Wildlife Refuge is a place where time seems to stand still. Typical everyday distractions like cell phones, city sights and sounds are left behind and soon long forgotten by students who visit Presquile. Even after only a couple days of hands-on experiences in the field, exploring and learning about the intricacies of the natural world, students leave feeling inspired.

On an overnight program, we ask students to reflect on their experience and capture their thoughts about their time on Presquile in a quote. Those who choose to can place their quote in our anonymous Ecology School quote box.  In their own words, here are the top 10 inspiration quotes and moments from students during this past spring season at the Ecology School:

1.       When you connect to nature, you disconnect from troubles.

2.       Respect yourself, respect others, respect the world you live in, and everything else will fall into place.

3.       Nature, a simple word with vast amounts of greatness and beauty.

4.       We are not above nature – we are just one organism amongst millions, why shouldn’t we respect it?

5.       Sometimes you just need to stop whatever you are doing and just think, breath, and appreciate.  Appreciate the beauty of the world around you.  Savor the moment, before it is too late.

6.       Never does one feel more lonely than when sitting in nature, yet there is unity in the loneliness.

7.       Nature is neato.

8.       Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.

9.       Any place can be good, but the people there make it great.

10.   You will never know the true degree of our connection and dependence on this planet until you experience nature itself, until you build that essential relationship. This, such an easy and quick action of the mind, will truly impact everything you do.  Just as human relationships constantly evolve so does that between man and nature.

I expect as these students grow and progress in life, they will find inspiration in their words well past, but still influence by, their time at the Ecology School. Maybe, even one day, we will find their words inscribed on the boardwalk planks at an environmental education center helping to inspire youth much like they too were inspired by what they saw during their stay on Presquile.

Top 5 Things to Look Forward to on the James this Fall

By JRA Staff

1-Perfect Paddling Weather

Crisp days and clear skies make fall the best time to paddle the James. To check for prime colors along your section of the river visit the Virginia tourism site  http://www.virginia.org/fall/  for the foliage report or call the hotline at 1-800-424-LOVE. Be safe before you go…check out current river conditions at JRA’s James RiverWatch. 

http://www.jrava.org/jrw/

2- Anthem James River Splash & Dash in Richmond

Get ready to get wet! Or just come to watch! The Anthem Splash & Dash, a 5K trail run around Belle Isle and tube race across the James takes place on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. to benefit JRA. Join us after the race for the party at the American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar Ironworks. There will be live music, food and beer sales. Event registration is $34 and open until September 18. www.richmond/jrsplashanddash.org

3 - Atlantic Sturgeon are Leaping

Take a 2.5 hour tour on the James near Presquile NWR to watch for Atlantic sturgeon as they leap completely out of the water! Join Discover the James and JRA on Thursday, September 12 or 19 from 5 to 7:30, p.m. for a nature cruise aboard the 40-foot pontoon boat Spirit of the James, leaving from Jordan Point Marina, Hopewell. Cost is $55 ($45 for JRA members). Reserve your place now! http://discoverthejames.com/?q=content/special-event-atlantic-sturgeon-james or call 804-938-2350.

4 - Fall is Planting Time

This is an ideal time to do some river-friendly landscaping.  Aerate your lawn. Plan and plant a rain garden. Evaluate the plants that didn’t make it through the summer and replace them with hardy, low maintenance native plants. Plant a tree! For the sake of a cleaner James, take steps to eliminate your home’s stormwater runoff and become a JRA-certified River Hero Home. You’ll be eligible for discounts that will save you money now and in the months to come. Find out more. http://www.jrava.org/what-we-do/river-hero/

5 - Oysters!

Fall is the season of “months with an R,” traditionally the best time for enjoying oysters. Virginia’s oyster industry is making a comeback, with the biggest harvest since 1985. Good news for oysters, oyster lovers and clean water! This year Virginia is spending $2 million to restore oyster beds in the Newport News and lower James region to help increase the population of this important and tasty native bivalve.

If you have waterfront access, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation offers information on how you can begin “oyster gardening” at your own dock. http://www.cbf.org/Document.Doc?id=195

Top 5 Tubing Spots Along the Middle James

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

It’s been a wet start to the summer, but things looks like they are finally getting back to normal, which is music to river lovers’ ears! A great way to spend a warm summer day out on the river with your family and friends is to go on a tubing trip. Here is a list of some great spots along the middle James recommended by JRA’s RiverRats. These locations are good whether you have your own tube or need to rent one. Have fun and be safe!

View Untitled in a larger map

James River State Park: This is a 2-mile float with a few riffles. It runs alongside the park through rolling hills. The park offers tube rentals and provides a shuttle. Make it a weekend trip and camp or stay in one of their cabins. “Along the way, there is only one or two spots of "swift" water. One of which is at Treasure Island on the right side, a good half way point with a nice beach to take out, relax, stretch, or have a snack. All in all, you can't beat the services and amenities offered by the park, plus that part of the River is great for beginners.”-RiverRat Kevin Hansen

Warren to Hatton Ferry: This is a 3-mile trip that takes you along the James through rural Virginia and is a great easy float. If you do not have your own tube, James River Runners offers tubes and shuttles. “Warren has a nice sandbar with eddies that make a nice swimming hole and lunch spot. If Hatton is your pickup there is a set of class 1 and you'll navigate through a riverwide rocky outcrop. Fun stuff.”-RiverRat Chad O’Brien

Hatton Ferry to Scottsville: This is a 4-mile trip along the James that is a pretty calm float. If you do not have your own tube, James River Reeling and Rafting offers tubes and shuttles. If you have time after tubing, take a little walk through Scottsville, a great little river town! Horseshoe Flats is a great place to camp if you want to make it a weekend trip.

Cartersville to West View:  Enjoy a 5-mile float that is mostly flat with a couple of riffles. You will need to provide your own tube, but there is parking at Cartersville and West View. “I would recommend Cartersville to West View… We have enjoyed the float with family on 4th of July several times.” –RiverRat Roy Hyle

Powhatan State Park to Maidens: Come out to visit Virginia’s newest State Park on the banks of the James! This float is about 5 miles and is mostly flat with a stretch of big boulders and deep water. You will need to provide your own tube, but there is parking at the park and at Maidens landing.

There are also great spots on the Upper and Lower James, but that would be just too big of a list! For more recomendations along the James and throughout Virginia, visit http://www.virginia.org/directory/outdoorsandsports/raftingtubing/

The Top 5 Plants We Do Not want to See in the James River Watershed

by Amber Ellis, JRA watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Coordinator

Invasive plants have become one of the most serious threats to native species, natural communities, and ecosystem processes. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has a great list that breaks plants down by highly, moderately, and occasionally invasive. Here is a list of our Top 5 invasives that are often seen in our parks and around our homes. Help keep these “invaders” out of the James River 

watershed:

         English Ivy (Hedera helix)

         Japanese knotweed (Polygonum perfoliatum)

         Johnson Grass (Sorghum halepense)

     Phragmites (Phragmites australis)

         Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

March 3 through 8 is National Invasive Species Awareness Week! Want to celebrate, but not sure how? Participate in a local invasive removal event, go out your backdoor and see if there are some pesky invasive plants to remove, or go out and plant natives!

More Resources:

Ivy out of Richmond

Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas

Invasive Species in Virginia

10 Great River Dining Locations

If the cold weather is keeping you in the house and off the river, here are a few dining spots that offer a great view of the river while you eat.

1. Blue Heron - Chickahominy River

2. Smithfield Station – Smithfield

3. Dockside - Jordan Point

4. Dale House Cafe - Historic Jamestowne

5. Charley's Waterfront Cafe - Farmville

6. The Boathouse Restaurant at Rocketts Landing - Richmond

7. Legend Brewery – Richmond

8. Café at Maidens - Maidens 

9. Crab Shack - Newport News

10. Kingsmill Marina Bar and Grille - Williamsburg

Do you have any Favorites to add to the list?

Sturgeon on the Rise – A Guide to Spotting a Giant Flying Fish

by Jamie Brunkow, JRA's Lower James Riverkeeper

From the falls of Richmond to the expansive estuary near Jamestown, an ancient creature is returning to its spawning habitat in the James River. It’s continuing a fall migration that has taken place for eons. And it’s showing signs of an endangered species attempting to make a comeback.

Sturgeons have persisted since the age of the dinosaurs, making them one of the oldest groups of fish in existence today. They’ve been around so long, that they’ve earned the moniker “living fossils.” Yet the arrival and industrialization of mankind proved to be more than the sturgeon could contend with. Overfishing and loss of habitat have sent the Atlantic Sturgeon population to the brink of collapse.

But in the James River the story of Atlantic Sturgeon has taken a remarkable turn in recent years. It’s clear that sturgeon are not only in the James, but that they’re leaping out of the water during their fall spawning season. Yes – the behavior commonly associated with flipper and other mammalian relatives known as “breaching,” is not uncommon among sturgeon. With a little luck, a fall visit to some portions of the James River can offer an unforgettable experience to the onlooker.

A breach may last less than a second, and if you’re not fast enough you may see only a splash. To increase your odds, here are some of the top places to spot a sturgeon from August to mid-November.

1.       Presquile National Wildlife Refuge – In recent years, more sturgeon have been caught and tagged here for research than anywhere else in the James. The River near Presquile is accessible by boat, and on a good day it’s not uncommon to see 2-3 sturgeon breaching in a half hour period. This is also the site of JRA’s experimental “spawning reef,” which was designed to encourage spawning and to mimic the hard substrate bottom where sturgeon prefer to lay their row.

2.       City Point, Hopewell – Just downstream from Presquile, the James River widens tremendously at the confluence with the Appomattox River. City Point Waterfront Park overlooks the area where the two Rivers meet, offering visitors a scenic view from the water’s edge and an excellent vantage point for any breaching sturgeon. You’re probably just as likely to see a breach here as you are near Presquile.

3.       The Fall Line at Richmond – For those who like to rock hop and explore the riffles and pools around Richmond, the fall season can offer an additional bonus. Researchers believe the rocky bottom and swift moving water found at the Fall Line is the preferred spawning habitat for sturgeon. You’re unlikely to see a breach here, but if you’re lucky you can spot one of these giant fish through the water column. In late September 2012, several sturgeon were spotted from the Mayo Bridge – as large as six feet long. Historically they’ve been spotted as far upstream as Bosher Dam.

4.       Deep Water Terminal – Accessible by boat and right on the edge of Richmond, the River near Deep Water Terminal is great for sturgeon seeking city dwellers. The fairly narrow channel here can mean that when a sturgeon does breach, it’s hard to miss. And reports of sturgeon are common here during the fall spawning season – just be sure one doesn’t land in your boat.

5.       Chickahominy River – If the Chickahominy is your neck of the woods, keep your eyes peeled for an occasional five foot sturgeon breaching out of the water. Although little is still known about the extent of sturgeon spawning habitat in the James River watershed, Sturgeon may have historically utilized more of the Chickahominy than we currently understand. As early as August 2012, a sturgeon was seen breaching near the mouth of Shipyard Creek, on the Chickahominy River.

Earlier in 2012, Atlantic Sturgeon were listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. Throughout the Chesapeake Bay region, scientists believe sturgeon numbers are still far too few. Moratoriums on catching sturgeon have been in place for decades, but the fish is slow growing and slow to reproduce – not reaching sexual maturity until approximately 10 years. Sturgeon in the James River are far from a complete recovery. Our continued actions to protect the species are critical to bringing them back – and are a constant reminder of how extraordinarily lucky we are to have them in the James River.

Top 5 Spring Fling Ideas in the James River Watershed

by Anna Salzberg, JRA's Outreach Intern


1. It is time to cleanup that winter layer of trash! Please come participate in a James River Association trash pick-up. The first event will be held April 20th from 1pm-3pm at Belle Isle, Richmond. If you can’t make that date, then you are in luck with a second opportunity on May 19th from 10am-12pm at Horsepen Branch, Henrico County. Check out the James River event calendar for details, as registration is required. We hope to see you out there.

2. You have the opportunity to experience a truly unique ‘start of spring’ eco-paddling event with the James River Association and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as your guides in and around Presquile National Wildlife Refuge. There are wetlands, creeks, and the river to enjoy teeming with diverse wildlife and yes, our favorite bald eagles too. The event is planned for May 12th and this event is free, but registration is required. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.  http://jamesriverassociation.org/news/calendar

3. Hike the James and do some wildlife viewing. Check out the link below to sweat a little bit, breathe some fresh air, and lay your eyes on your very own natural amusement park! There are many paths you can take depending on the challenge you are seeking, but the important thing is to get out near the river and appreciate what is already there for all ages to enjoy. http://www.hikingupward.com/OVH/JamesRiver/

4. You might not realize it, but Richmonders can travel a short way downriver to enjoy a tour of bald eagles from a very good friend and expert of the James River, Captain Mike Ostrander. On his Discovery Barge II, a comfortable 24-foot covered pontoon boat, you’ll experience majestic bald eagles closer than you may have ever seen them. Captain Mike will even provide binoculars so you can view this national symbol up close and personal. http://www.discoverthejames.com/

5. Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens is an amazing place filled with so many species of plants and flowers with roots from all over the world that it will blow your mind. The rose and Japanese gardens are truly unbelievable sites, and the Conservatory will dazzle you with the orchids on display from March 10-April 22. All are available for touring and there is even a hands-on area with a castle for the children to explore. Lewis Ginter is definitely a must-see this spring. http://www.lewisginter.org/

JRA RiverRats’ Top 5 Stretches for Beginner Paddlers

by Amber Ellis, Watershed Restoration Associate/Volunteer Manager

Looking for some great spots along the James River or one of its tributaries to go paddling, but are still a beginner? Check out these stretches throughout the watershed. All of these spots have been tagged on JRA’s Interactive Map of the James River, just click on the links to go to the map.

1. Powhatan Creek near Jamestown. There is plenty of parking and easy access. The creek widens as you head downstream towards the James. Paddle upstream and you get into a cool swamp. (Recommended by RiverRat Steve Forrest)

Powhatan Creek Map Link

2. The foot of 7th Street at the James River in downtown Lynchburg. This is a public City of Lynchburg Park canoe/kayak ramp with 11 parking spaces. It is next to the Griffin Pipe plant. You will have a good float (and fishing) upriver for about ½ mile to the Scotts Mill dam or you can float downriver over the small riffles that contain the debris from the old 9th Street Bridge. (May be difficult to get back through the riffles to get back to the 7th Street Ramp). This ramp is great for just paddling around and getting back to your car at a put-in and a take-out all in one spot. (Recommended by RiverRat Joe Seiffert)

7th Street Ramp Map Link

3. Windsor Castle Park (Cypress Creek) near Smithfield, kayak launch and Jones Creek in Isle of Wight County, boat ramp (has a floating dock also). Both creeks are tidal tributaries of the Pagan River, which is a tidal tributary of the James River. Windsor Castle Park has other amenities, such as a nice walking trail, and a dog park. Jones Creek and Cypress Creek are both great for paddling because they are relatively protected from the wind (Recommended by RiverRat Tim Jones)

Cypress Creek Map Link

Jones Creek Map Link

4. Deep Bottom Park/Four Mile Creek area in Henrico County. Great tidal flat water for paddling. It is quiet, even though there's access for larger boats at the park. The mouth of Four Mile Creek at the James River lends itself to gorgeous sunsets and lots of wildlife can be heard and observed. This is just an all-around relaxing place to spend some time. (Recommended by RiverRat Tracy Warner)

Four Mile Creek Map Link

5. Morris Creek, Charles City County, is a tributary of the Chickahominy River, which is a tributary of the James River. This tidal creek is a good place for beginners and very scenic. There is a nice boat launch in the VDGIF's Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area. (Recommended by RiverRat Steve Forrest)

Morris Creek Map Link

For more information on JRA’s Interactive Map go to http://jrava.org/enjoy-the-james/interactive-map

Top 5 Places to Enjoy Winter Wildlife

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

Winter is a great time to see wildlife when the views through the forest open up and the snow turns the landscape into a blank canvas. Check out these events and places for enjoying wildlife this winter.

1. Winter Wildlife Festival: This is a great weekend event at the Princess Anne Recreation Center in Virginia Beach. The festival is filled with awesome trips and workshops, where you can see winter wildlife and learn where and what type of wildlife to look for this time of year in Virginia.

2. Winter Wildlife Boat Trip at Virginia Beach: This two hour trip with Virginia Aquarium educators takes you off the coast of Virginia Beach where you may see humpback and fin whales or large sea birds like brown pelicans or cormorants.

3. Woodpecker Ridge Nature Center: Located in Botetourt, this place offers trails that wind you through various ecosystems such as hardwood forests, fields, spruce and cedar stands, and pond habitat, where you are sure to see a wealth of wildlife.

4. James River Park System: Located in the heart of Richmond, this park offers 550 acres and miles of trails for you to search for wildlife. Bufflehead ducks enjoy hanging out in the river this time of year. Keep your eyes open for deer and fox.

5. Your own backyard!: If you provide food, shelter, and water for wildlife in your yard, then you can view wildlife from your windows as you stay nice and warm inside.