Friends of the Rappahannock

Friends of the Rappahannock strives to be the voice and active force for a healthy and scenic Rappahannock River. 

This year we're committed to No Panic in the Piedmont. Because Friends of the Rappahannock exists, you don’t need to panic; we’re here every day protecting clean water, restoring healthy habitats, and safeguarding the natural beauty of the river we all love. 

The Rappahannock is safe because of the work we do together. Help us keep it that way. Support Friends of the Rappahannock during Give Local Piedmont and invest in a river that stays strong, healthy, and thriving for generations to come!

More About Us

For over 40 years, Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) has worked to ensure that the Rappahannock River remains a clean, vibrant, and accessible natural treasure—for drinking water, for recreation, and for the wildlife that depends on it. Our mission is grounded in three core areas: Advocacy, Restoration, and Education.

We’ve connected more than 160,000 students to the river through hands-on environmental education programs that inspire stewardship and action. We led the removal of Embrey Dam, opening over 600 miles of spawning habitat for migratory fish and birds. We’ve championed the permanent protection of over 4,200 acres of riverfront lands, safeguarding 32 miles of scenic and ecologically valuable riverfront for generations to come. We've planted over 600,000 trees throughout the watershed and more than 5 million oysters, cleaning our waterways from the outside in. 

Your support powers this work. With your help, we can continue to grow the next generation of river stewards, protect clean water, and strengthen community-led conservation across the watershed. Together, we’re creating a future where the Rappahannock is protected, respected, and loved.