About Canaan Valley Institute

Our Mission

To ensure clean water, healthy streams, resilient watersheds, and thriving communities throughout Central Appalachia.

Who We Are

Since 1995, Canaan Valley Institute (CVI) has been dedicated to solving Central Appalachia's most pressing environmental challenges. At CVI, we believe clean water is the foundation of vibrant, healthy communities.

From removing pollution and restoring degraded streams to improving wastewater systems and enhancing wildlife habitats, our work is rooted in preserving the connection between nature and people.

We partner with local governments, landowners, and organizations to develop solutions that are practical, sustainable, and impactful.

Whether rebuilding streambanks or inspiring young minds through outdoor science education, CVI is committed to building a future where communities and ecosystems thrive together.

CVI team members and local volunteers planting native trees and other vegetation along a riverbank, enhancing habitat and improving water quality in Berkeley County, West Virginia.

What We Do…

  • Habitat Restoration – Biologists holding endangered mussels, illustrating the importance of protecting the Clinch River's diverse aquatic life.

    Stream & Habitat Restoration

    Reconnecting rivers and rebuilding habitats for fish, mussels, and wildlife.

  • Wastewater – CVI staff assess stream bank erosion and prepare to perform restoration work in  to support ecosystem health and biodiversity.

    Wastewater Management

    Helping communities replace outdated systems to ensure clean, safe water for everyone.

  • CVI team planting saplings as part of a green infrastructure stormwater project, demonstrating community collaboration for environmental restoration.

    Community Partnerships

    Collaborating with local governments, organizations, and landowners to create lasting solutions.

  • Outreach and Education – A group of students gathers outdoors for an environmental field study, learning about ecosystems, conservation, and hands-on restoration work.

    Education & Outreach

    Inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards through hands-on science education.

Our Vision

We envision a region where communities and ecosystems grow stronger together. By linking environmental restoration with economic growth, we’re building stronger, more resilient communities for future generations.

CVI team members installing bundles of live plant stakes along a streambank, stabilizing the soil and improving water quality for future generations.
Yellow swallowtail butterfly feeding on plant native to the region, symbolizing the biodiversity and ecological health supported by CVI's restoration projects.
CVI staff planting trees along a stream to restore native ecosystems and promote environmental resilience in Central Appalachia.