RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia is trying to protect its longest river by launching a new program to plant 900 acres of trees, shrubs and other vegetation along waterways.
Gov. Ralph Northam announced Friday an initiative to plant forested buffers in the James River watershed between Lynchburg and Richmond.
The Virginia Department of Forestry is partnering with the James River Association on the project, which is part of a $15 million, multi-year plan to improve the river’s quality.
The buffers slow flood water, filter runoff, and provide shade and shelter to wildlife.
The 340-mile long James is fed by 15,000 miles of tributaries.
Eligible property owners can apply for free buffers and installation at jamesriverbuffers.org
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