The Clinch River Valley Initiative (CRVI) is a collaborative effort in Southwest Virginia, focusing on the Clinch River Valley—one of the most biodiverse river systems in North America. Working at a watershed scale with many local partners, this grassroots effort has developed significant momentum with applicability for communities in Appalachia and beyond.

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Utilizing a consensus-based approach, project partners have developed goals for connecting downtown revitalization, outdoor recreation, water quality, entrepreneurship, and environmental education along the Clinch River, and are taking action to realize the prioritized goals.

 

The project connects to cultural and natural heritage efforts within the 4- county footprint of the Clinch River Valley to create new possibilities in the communities along the Clinch, particularly around environmental education, economic development, and entrepreneurship.

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Click here to learn about the five target areas that CRVI is organized around. Those include: 

• Goal 1: Support of the Clinch River State Park and the region's public lands.

• Goal 2: Develop and integrate access points, trails, and campgrounds along the Clinch River.

• Goal 3: Enhance water quality in the Clinch River.

• Goal 4: Develop and enhance environmental education opportunities for all community members in the Clinch River watershed.

• Goal 5: Connect and Expand Downtown Revitalization, Marketing and Entrepreneurial Development Opportunities in the Clinch River Valley.