Representatives on the Whitewater Commission include the director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the director of the West Virginia Division 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

Stephen S. McDaniel, Director
Division of Natural Resources
Ex-Officio Member & Chairman

Chelsea Ruby
Department of Commerce
Division of Tourism
Ex-Officio Member

Chris Ellis
Private River User/Gauley River
Term Ends: June 30, 2021

Edward Wooton
Private River User/Shenandoah & Cheat Rivers
Term Ends: June 30, 2021

Lizzie Watts, Superintendant
National Park Service
New River Gorge National Park
Non-voting Member

Heather Johnson
River Expeditions
Commercial Outfitter/Multiple Licenses
Term Ends: June 30, 2023

Don Beyer
Private River User/New River
Term Ends: June 30, 2022

Christopher I. Hayes
Adventure West Virginia Resort
Commercial Outfitter/Multiple Licenses
Term Ends: June 30, 2023

Robert Bower
Sandstone Jetboats
Commercial Outfitter/Single License
Term Ends: June 30, 2022

Wendy Hart
Cheat River Outfitters
Commercial Outfitter/Single License
Term Ends: June 30, 2022