BECKLEY — The New River Conservancy is seeking four paddlers for what it calls the “adventure of a lifetime,” announcing plans for the New River Expedition 2026.
The expedition, known as NRX26, will send a four-person crew down the length of the New River, beginning at its headwaters in western North Carolina, continuing through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and ending at New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia.
Participants will travel primarily by paddle, camping most nights in primitive conditions. A small support team will assist with shuttling, trip planning and logistics, but the crew will be largely self-supported.
The expedition is designed to celebrate the river and the Appalachian communities along its banks while supporting development of the New River Water Trail. Organizers say the team will identify gaps in recreation infrastructure, document areas in need of cleanup and highlight locations that warrant additional protection.
Crew members also will produce media content showcasing the river’s recreational opportunities, including whitewater paddling and fishing, promoting the New River as a premier outdoor destination.
“This is an incredible opportunity for a group of paddlers with a passion for adventure, wildlife and self-supported backcountry travel to get paid for an experience like no other,” said Andrew Downs, executive director of the conservancy, who has completed multiple long-distance trips on the river. “This trip is designed to show the public just how much the New has to offer and what is possible as we work with a diverse group of partners in the development of the New River Water Trail.”
The New River Conservancy, headquartered in West Jefferson with an additional office in Draper, Virginia, serves 22 counties across North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. Founded in the early 1970s, the nonprofit works to protect the woods, waters and wildlife of the New River watershed through volunteer-based river cleanups, water quality monitoring, riverbank restoration, land protection and community engagement.
The organization is partnering with regional stakeholders to develop an action plan to expand the New River Water Trail, a project aimed at connecting Appalachian communities across three states, strengthening rural economies and increasing opportunities for conservation through trail development.
Applications for the expedition crew are being accepted through the conservancy’s website. Applicants are asked to submit a resume, cover letter and references and to highlight any unique skills or interests they would bring to the team.
See more rom The Register-Herald
