Virginia Access Fund Open For Donations

American Whitewater regularly accepts donations for specific projects, and we would like to invite paddlers to donate to support our stream access work in Virginia. As many paddlers are aware, Virginia has some of the most antiquated and harsh stream access laws in the nation. American Whitewater is working with a team of volunteers, pro-bono attorneys, and regional river enthusiasts to reduce threats of prosecution for the simple act of floating down a river or stream. Donations will be used at our discretion to meet the greatest benefits to our members.

AW will use donated funds for:

• Court fees, attorney fees, staff time, travel costs, and other hard costs associated with civil litigation or legislation conducted on behalf of American Whitewater by designated representation and/or AW staff.American Whitewater will make every possible effort to work with volunteers including pro bono (volunteer) attorneys.
• Costs associated with the upkeep, rent, or ownership of river access areas.
• As deemed appropriate by AW, reimbursement of the above costs to AW partners and/or affiliate clubs.

AW will not use donated funds for:

• Any activities unrelated to stream access in Virginia
• Activities not explicitly planned and approved in advance by American Whitewater.
• Attorney Fees or court costs to defend individual paddlers charged with trespass or other access related charges, unless AW deems such actions to be both strategic and beneficial to our collective membership.

Dontations can be made on the AW Donate Page, please write "Virginia Access" in the comment or memo field on any donation.