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Welcome James Major, RMS’ new National Rivers Project Coordinator 

James Major, River Management Society National Rivers Project CoordinatorPlease welcome James Major to the River Management Society (RMS) team as the new National Rivers Project (NRP) Coordinator. James holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography from the University of Oregon as well as a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy from Northern Arizona University.

He is one of 25 students who have completed the RMS River Studies and Leadership Certificate (RSLC) since 2014 and has already experienced working with RMS through this program. His technical experience includes geographic information systems (GIS), Structure from Motion modeling and geospatial coding, and he is well-versed in Wild and Scenic Rivers history and policies.

“I first became familiar with RMS through the RSLC program and especially through presenting at two RMS symposiums: one in person in Vancouver, and one virtually through the Richmond poster session,” said Major. “When I found out there was a position available with RMS that aligned with my career goals of working with rivers and GIS, I knew I wanted to join. I was fortunate enough to get that opportunity and am honored to be the new NRP Coordinator.”

Working as a student research assistant on several Wild and Scenic rivers and an undergraduate in Oregon, including the Rogue and John Day rivers, was very influential in his academic and career aspirations. James' thesis research focused on the management of potentially eligible rivers for Wild and Scenic designation. As such, James is excited to join RMS and looks forward to continuing to expand the NRP database with the goal of making river trips more accessible to people all over the country. He feels it is important for more people to experience the wonder of our Wild and Scenic Rivers to strengthen support and advocacy for expanding state and federal river protection policies.

“Even though I have only been here for a little while, I can already see the strong support system that RMS has created internally,” said James. “Also apparent is the interest and desire for success exuded by our partners concerning the NRP. I am excited to continue the good work that Jack has done over the years and continue to expand the National River Recreation Database (NRRD) to connect people to their rivers.” 

GIS and Program Assistant Jack Henderson, who has developed the NRRD since its very early days, wishes James well.

“After five wonderful years of working on the NRP with RMS, I'm excited to pursue new projects and endeavors that bring together GIS, cartography, rivers, recreation and conservation,” said Henderson. “I'll certainly miss my day-job working with RMS, and the partnerships that make up the NRP, but am super excited to have James taking over. I am confident that his background, skills and passions for rivers will create an easy transition into his new role, and allow him to thrive in developing and amplifying creative new projects while expanding relationships with existing and forthcoming organizations and agencies.

James resides in Flagstaff, Arizona with his partner Rose and dog Leo. He is an avid fisherman and serviceable kubb player. When he is not working to protect and promote our nation’s rivers, James loves to explore the Verde River Valley and its tributaries.

The NRP is the United States' ever-growing comprehensive, authoritative database and interactive map that records and shares paddling information for Wild & Scenic Rivers, water trails and select whitewater rivers. This information is sourced and vetted by local managers and is available to the public online. Visit the NRP at www.nationalriversproject.com, and reach out to James directly with questions or suggestions at james(at)river-management.org.