Below the Falls of the James

The James River begins in western Virginia, in Botetourt County, at the confluence of the Cowpasture and Jackson Rivers. It flows eastward ultimately joining the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The Below the Falls project focuses on the dynamic nature of the James River corridor as the river descends from the rapids, or falls, in downtown Richmond and begins its life as a tidal estuary en route to the bay and ocean. The land and water that constitute the river corridor play a significant role in the stories of the people, animals, and plants that call the area home. This is the first story in a series of StoryMaps and other resources that will explore the significance of the river corridor, the policies the govern engagement with it, and the uses or issues that rely on its resources. In this story we explore the unique ecology of the tidal freshwater James River estuary.

Before focusing on the habitats, plants, and animals in the Below the Falls area, let's make sure we understand some key concepts and terms. The Below the Falls area of the James is tidal freshwater. The James River flows from western Virginia to the east, becoming a tidal estuary downstream of the rapids that lie along the fall line in the City of Richmond.