RCA hosts the Rivanna River Makeovers each year in the spring (around World Water Day and Earth Day) and in the fall (to commemorate the Clean Water Act, passed on October 18, 1972). The Makeovers consist of a series of stream cleanups, buffer plantings and maintenance, and restoration activities.
Cleanups: Each year, RCA hosts stream cleanups at locations throughout the watershed. Volunteers of all ages work to clear stream banks of litter, cans, old appliances, roof shingles, tires, car batteries and other debris. View the calendar to volunteer at the next cleanup, or contact us to schedule your group (business, school, club, etc.) for a cleanup.
Buffer plantings: RCA has a long and distinguished history planting trees throughout the watershed. This stands as a proven, effective conservation measure at keeping sedimentation and pollution 
associated with stormwater runoff out of the river. Most recently, in April 2014, Rivanna Conservation Society and community volunteers “greened” Buford Middle School and constructed a riparian buffer planting at Quarry Park.
Buffer maintenance: Newly planted trees and shrubs can quickly fall prey to invasive species if not carefully attended. RCA and volunteers protect and maintain buffers by removing invasive species on a regular basis after plantings.
Restoration activities: RCA undertakes both big and small scale restoration projects. From removing the Woolen Mills Dam to allow for a free flowing Rivanna, to filling in potholes at the Milton Shadwell boat launch, RCA strives to safeguard the Rivanna and keep it accessible to the community.