Protecting America's
Founding River
Learn about the vast watershed of the James River, its importance to the ecology of Virginia and the threats facing its vitally important role in that ecology.
In the first class of this two-part series, we explore the rich history and diverse ecology of the James River, examine the effects of pollutants on plant and animal species, and investigate the environmental regulations established to protect this natural resource and improve overall water quality. In the second part, explore the specific practices modeled that will not only beautify the landscape but also protect the watershed.
Participants receive extensive information on water regulatory guidelines and how to conduct an assessment of a residential-scale site. An annotated map of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden allows participants to visit the Garden on their own to explore examples of mitigation tactics in place. This program is supported by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency.
Why study the James River? It is a historically and ecologically important river in Virginia flowing over 400 miles from its headwaters in the mountains to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay. It is an ecosystem rich with life that is threatened by a growing human population, sprawling urban development, and increasing levels of pollutants.
This is an online class conducted via Zoom.
