Our friends at the James River Association are accepting applications for the fifth annual James River Expedition, “a floating classroom” where students paddle down the 340-mile length of the James River. Rising 10^th-and 11^th-grade students who live within the watershed are encouraged to apply before Friday, March 20 deadline.

Last year’s Lower James River Expedition on Day 1 in Richmond.

For the fifth straight year, the Expedition is sponsored by the Dominion Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dominion Resources. 

Students selected for the program will have the opportunity to go on one of three week-long trips that collectively travel the length of the James River over the summer. During the Expedition, which begins June 27, participants will learn about conservation, responsible stewardship and the river’s history while camping and traveling aboard canoes, bateaux rafts and work boats. Participants hear from diverse perspectives on the river to understand the many demands society places on it and the future challenges for keeping it healthy.

No previous paddling or camping experience is required. Educational staff will provide expert instruction on paddling, camping, and team building. Students who care about environmental stewardship, have a curiosity about the river, and enjoy leadership and teamwork are encouraged to apply. Thirty positions are available.

Since 2011, more than 107 students and 23 teachers from 34 schools across Virginia have participated in the Expedition.

The Upper James River Expedition passes through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

“We’re incredibly proud of the Expedition’s legacy. Over the past four years, students have had life changing experiences spending a week on the James River  learning about its importance and history, and taking those learnings back to their schools, families and communities,” said Bill Street, chief executive officer of the James River Association. “We are excited to offer once again this unique and powerful life experience to the next generation of river stewards to ensure a healthy future for ‘America’s Founding River.’”

The James River Association also is seeking three public high-school educators to help lead the Expedition trips. Educators from all disciplines are encouraged to apply to join this year’s James River Expedition. The deadline for teachers to apply is Friday, March 13.

Interested students and teachers can find more information and applications by clicking here or by contacting Georgia Busch at gbusch@jrava.org or 804.788.8811 ext. 214.