The Clinch River Valley Initiative (CRVI) is a pioneering effort to build local economies in the coalfields of Southwest Virginia, focusing on the Clinch River Valley—one of the most biodiverse river systems in North America. Working at a watershed scale with several local partners, this collaborative grassroots effort has developed significant momentum with applicability for communities in Appalachia and beyond. Utilizing a consensus-based approach, project partners have articulated goals for connecting downtown revitalization, outdoor recreation, water quality, entrepreneurship and environmental education along the Clinch River, and have developed an action plan to realize the prioritized goals (which may be found on the CRVI website). Strategies are being identified to connect downtown revitalization with outdoor recreation along the Clinch River Valley. The Clinch River Valley Initiative originated at a forum in the fall of 2010 around Building Local Economies in Southwest Virginia, and is coordinated by the Institute for Environmental Negotiation at the University of Virginia, with numerous local, regional and state partners. Christine coordinates and co-facilitates CRVI with IEN. Additional information about the effort and how to become involved may be found on the website: www.clinchriverva.com.
Download the CRVI One Page Brochure.
