Local paddler Patrick Griffin clued me in to this event, and it sounds really cool. On Thursday, May 22nd the James River Outdoor Coalition will be hosting the RVA premier of Patagonia’s documentary DamNation. The film will be projected on the side of the Floodwall at Floodwall Park in Manchester. Viewers are encouraged to come around 8:30 p.m. to mingle and grab a bite to eat from a local food truck and grab spot on the lawn.  The film will start promptly at 9 p.m. in order for it to be dark enough for the projection.

Ben Knight films the former Elwha Dam before its removal. Photo: Travis Rummel

Griffin said he and local filmmaker Melissa Lesh saw the film at the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital about three weeks ago.

“After being blown away, we talked about the possibility of bringing the film to Richmond,” Griffin said.

“Joey Parent of the VCU Outdoor Adventure Program had recently suggested that JROC do more regular fundraisers in order to always have funds to help the park when necessary,” Griffin added. “This combined with Hunter Davis’ success with showing paddling and biking films in the city led me to the idea of hosting a DamNation premier as a JROC benefit.

The event is made possible through JROC, VCU OAP, Home on the James, and Aviva Rentals.  A donation of $5 recommended to help defray the cost of the show. Any extra money will be given to JROC.