Lynnhaven River Now

Lynnhaven River Now is a non-profit organization that operates as a corporate entity and is registered to receive federal grants and cooperative agreements. It focuses on environmental conservation efforts in the coastal zone of Virginia, particularly in and around the Lynnhaven River.

Lynnhaven River Now has received a substantial $13.2 million cooperative agreement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the Marine Debris Program. This funding will support the removal of 100 abandoned and derelict vessels across Virginia's coastal zone, with minor restoration and monitoring activities at the project sites after the removals. The grant also includes outreach and education efforts to assist in developing a future abandoned vessel removal and prevention program for Virginia, targeting boat owners and surrounding communities, including underserved areas. Additionally, the funding will facilitate meetings to explore using fiberglass vessel hulls as an alternative fuel source. Lynnhaven River Now has also received sub-grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to restore and construct oyster reefs in the Lynnhaven River, with goals of creating 60 acres of new oyster habitat in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. These projects involve restoring 3 acres of oyster reef using crushed concrete substrate as an alternative substrate, in addition to traditional oyster reef restoration efforts.