As we look back on almost 40 years of advocacy, restoration, and education, it’s remarkable to see how Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) has grown and evolved since its founding in 1985. From a small grassroots initiative formed by a passionate group of citizens who wanted to protect their beloved river, FOR has expanded its reach and programming to make an even greater impact across the entire watershed. Today, we are a vital part of community education, river protection, and conservation, enriching lives and landscapes all along the Rappahannock River.
Over the years, FOR has adapted to meet the changing environmental needs of our region. Our early programs focused primarily on advocacy, local clean-ups, and environmental education in Fredericksburg, emphasizing the importance of keeping the river unimpeded, clean, and vibrant. In response to the needs of our watershed, our focus and reach have expanded and, in partnership with our community we’ve celebrated these amazing successes:
1985 – Rappahannock River designated as a Virginia State Scenic River
1989- Celebrated the Salem Church Dam official cancellation after the 1974 public opposition and cessation of the project.
2004 – Championed the removal of the Embrey Dam
2006 – Participated in the coalition to establish the watershed property easement in the City of Fredericksburg, spanning 42,000 acres
2011 – Establishment of the Tidal office in Tappahannock, thanks to an initial investment from the Virginia Environmental Endowment
2013 – Establishment of the Oyster restoration program in partnership with Kellum Seafood
2017 – The Rappahannock was listed as a Top 10 Most Endangered River in response to the fracking threat.
2020 – Virginia lawmakers ban fracking east of I-95, protecting 85,000 acres within our watershed
2020 – Establishment of a Headwaters office and Upper River Steward, thanks to the initial investment in the Path Foundation
2021 – Establishment of the Rappahannock River Symposium, which has grown into the marquee event for conservation in the watershed for federal, regional, and local stakeholders
2021 – Creation of the Upper Rappahannock River Water trail and winner of the Governors Environmental Excellence Award
2023 – Established a permanent outdoor classroom at Float on Farms in the Upper Region
2024 – Created the Environmental Literacy Plan for Caroline County, the 5th such plan established in the state
Image of Embrey Dam Removal :
Courtesy of U.S. Army file photo
American Rivers map of Most Endangered Rivers
Float on Farms Permanent Classroom
Today, our programs have expanded to include advanced river restoration initiatives like oyster bed restoration and large-scale riparian plantings. Our education programs have expanded to include summer camps, wilderness camping, watershed education, professional development, curriculum support, and community-based environmental education. We’re proud to partner with over 2,000 members, 25 local businesses, and countless volunteers throughout the watershed. This support has enabled us to offer new programs, engage more residents, and extend our reach further than ever.
Just as our programs have evolved, so too have the demands on our physical space. Our Fredericksburg HQ building has been a cornerstone for our work, hosting countless educational events, staff meetings, and volunteer gatherings. However, as our team has grown to include over 30 dedicated staff members, our building’s limitations have become more pronounced. From the need for ADA accessibility to increased office and storage space, our facility no longer fully supports our expanding work. We’re dedicated to making these much-needed upgrades to better accommodate our growing team and meet our community’s needs.
As we close out 2024, we’re thrilled to offer a sneak peek into the revitalization of our building—a project designed to support FOR’s next chapter. Our plans include adding more classroom and meeting spaces, improving energy efficiency, expanding storage, and enhancing our ability to host community events. This revitalized space will not only serve our current needs but will also ensure we can continue to grow in the years to come, creating a home base for even more impactful work. This revitalization also includes the acquisition of a 22-acre parcel of land with both historical and conservation significance.
We are immensely grateful for the support that makes this growth possible. Together, we’re making the Rappahannock River a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful place for generations to come. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we can’t wait to step into the future with you!
If you are interested in helping to make our vision for the Rappahannock a reality, consider investing in our building project HERE.
Written by Cat Carter, Development Director (November 2024)
