The Cowpasture River flows through some of western Virginia’s most scenic, rural landscape. Beginning in Highland County, it flows south through Bath, Alleghany, and Botetourt Counties for over 80 miles. At Iron Gate, it joins the Jackson River to form the James River. People who experience the river, whether as residents or visitors, find that its beauty and peace remain with them always. The Association was formed in 1972 by lovers of the river to try to make sure the Cowpasture remains clean and healthy into the future for all who enjoy it.
How is the River Running?
View current and historical field observations of the Cowpasture and Bullpasture Rivers featuring water temperature, discharge, specific water conductance, peak streamflow, field measurements, field/lab water-quality samples and more.
Cowpasture: McKinney Hollow/Clifton Forge
Bullpasture: Williamsville/Bath County
The River Runs Newsletter
Our Summer 2023 edition of The River Runs is now available.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Ø From the President
Ø PFAS “Forever Chemicals”
Ø Executive Assistant’s Corner
Ø Wood Duck Club Annual Report
Ø Annual Meeting Highlights
Ø The Roughhead Shiner
Ø Summer Picnic/Departing Board Members
Ø Request for Auction Items
Ø Japanese Knotweed
Ø Karst Topography Field Trip
Ø The Local Arts
Ø Join or Renew Your Membership
Pipeline Updates
Atlantic Coast Pipeline Updates
The CRPA Board of Directors has conscientiously tracked the progress of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline application before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and before the U. S. Forest Service. The Cowpasture River Preservation Association has contributed to the greater public dialogue in two areas of critical concern – i.e., the erosion of soil, debris and rock in rugged mountainous terrain, and the threats to surface and ground water quality. Both water quality issues devolve from the essence of our corporate charter and represent the vital concerns of our membership who are primarily riparian landowners.
Latest News

Millboro Elementary School Nature Trail Hike
Join Us For Our Upcoming Field Trip Registration is Now Open Nature Trail HikeSaturday, September 16, 2023Meet up at 9:00 amLed by Arne Peterson Registration Details: Join Arne Peterson for...
2023 CRPA Annual Summer Picnic and Family Fun Day
SAVE THE DATE!SATURDAY, AUGUST 12, 2023 2023 CRPA Annual Summer Picnic and Family Fun Day 3:30—5:00 p.m. Come early if you would like to swim5:00— 6:00 p.m. Happy Hour (self-serve)6:00—7:30...