Six rivers added to the Virginia Scenic Rivers System

The Virginia Scenic Rivers Program turns 50 this year, and it just received quite the birthday gift - the addition of six rivers to the state scenic system! This milestone is further evidence that river designations are a broadly supported tool for communities to protect and celebrate the rivers that offer so much in terms of recreation, ecology, clean water, public health, and economic benefits.

The additions became official July 1. They are:

-         Clinch River in Tazewell and Russell counties (36.8 miles)*

-         Grays Creek in Surry County (6 miles)

-         James River in Albemarle, Buckingham and Fluvanna counties (20 miles)*

-         Maury River in Rockbridge County (19.25 miles)

-         Pound River in Wise and Dickenson counties (17 miles)

-         Staunton River in Charlotte and Halifax counties (11.5 miles)*

*Other sections of these rivers were designated in previous years.

Governor Ralph Northam also proclaimed June as Virginia Scenic Rivers Month.

"This is an exciting year for the program," said Lynn Crump, Virginia Scenic Rivers Program coordinator. "Not only have we added over 110 new river miles - more than any other year in the history of the program - but six new segments in one year surpasses what we thought was possible. Through this program, communities are demonstrating the pride they have in their rivers."

Many thanks to the citizens, nonprofit organizations, local governments, legislators, and Governor Northam, who made all of this possible!

Inspired? Take a few minutes to ask your congressional delegation to designate the Nolichucky River in nearby Tennessee and North Carolina as a federal Wild and Scenic River (Ask again, even if you have sent an email or made a call in the past).