Representatives on the Whitewater Commission include the director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the cabinet secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism, private river users, whitewater industry representatives and other government officials. The commission works with WVDNR to provide regulatory oversight to this popular tourism industry that allows the public to enjoy whitewater rafting and other opportunities while protecting public safety.
The Whitewater Commission’s quarterly meetings are held at various locations, including:
WVDNR Headquarters
324 4th Avenue
South Charleston, WV 25303
Once available, the agenda for the next meeting is linked below along with approved minutes from previous meetings.
Commission Members
Brett McMillion, Director
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
Ex-Officio Member and Chairman
Chelsea Ruby, Cabinet Secretary
West Virginia Department of Tourism
Ex-Officio Member
Charles Sellars, Superintendant
National Park Service
New River Gorge National Park
Non-Voting Member
Don Beyer
Private River User/New River
Term Ends: June 30, 2025
Robert Bower
Sandstone Jetboats
Commercial Outfitter/Single License
Term Ends: June 30, 2025
Chris Ellis
Private River User/Gauley River
Term Ends: June 30, 2024
Edward Wooton
Private River User/Shenandoah and Cheat Rivers
Term Ends: June 30, 2024
Heather Johnson
River Expeditions
Term Ends: June 30, 2023
Christopher I. Hayes
Adventure West Virginia Resort
Commercial Outfitter/Multiple Licenses
Term Ends: June 30, 2023
George Heffner, Jr.
Harpers Ferry Adventure Center
Commercial Outfitter/Single License
Term Ends: June 30, 2025