An Earth Day Message

Dear Friends of the James River Park,

As we celebrate Earth Day, I invite you to join us in celebrating and supporting the preservation of one of Richmond’s most cherished natural treasures.

For 16 years, Friends of the James River Park has been dedicated to the stewardship, conservation, and enhancement of the James River Park System. Our mission is to work with the City of Richmond to protect, expand, and enhance the JRPS. We are proud to do that work, and we are grateful for your support, which makes it all possible.

This Earth Day, we are asking for your help to expand our capacity to support the James River Park System. With your help, we can continue to protect this invaluable resource and create a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations.

Right now we are working on several different projects to support the Park. The piece I am most excited about is the impending development of our Natural Resource Management Plan. This new comprehensive resource management plan will guide our conservation work in the Park, and help Park staff develop long-term conservation strategies.

Over the past year we have also been working to develop a vision for Belle Isle improvements that will enhance Park user’s experience of the island without detracting from the natural spaces that are there. These include things like an improved bike skills area, an area for families with young kids to explore nature through play, and adaptive re-use projects for some of the abandoned industrial remnants around the island.

Here’s how you can get involved, or continue to be involved,  in our work:

  • Make a Donation or Become a Member: Consider making a tax-deductible donation to, or becoming a member of, Friends of the James River Park. Your generous support will directly fund critical projects and programs that protect the Park’s natural beauty, enhance recreational opportunities, and promote environmental education. By becoming a member you are letting us know that you want a little extra engagement and that we can rely on you for ongoing annual support.  jamesriverpark.org/donate

  • Volunteer: Roll up your sleeves and lend a hand at one of our upcoming volunteer events. From trail maintenance and park clean-ups to invasive species removal, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make a positive impact on the health of the park.

  • Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness by sharing our mission and initiatives with your network. Whether you’re posting on social media, organizing a fundraising event, or simply telling your friends and family about the importance of preserving the James River Park System, every little bit helps.

Together, we can ensure that the James River Park System remains a vibrant and thriving natural sanctuary for generations to come. Thank you for your commitment to preserving our planet and supporting the Friends of the James River Park.

If you have any questions or would like more information about how you can get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact me at josh@jamesriverpark.org.

Thank you for your consideration, and happy Earth Day!

Sincerely,

Josh Stutz, Executive Director
Friends of the James River Park

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