Though vital to the economic and military development in Southeastern Virginia, industrial activity has made Elizabeth River one of the most contaminated watersheds in the world. The Elizabeth River Project uses a collaborative approach involving over 100 partners from industries, schools, local and federal agencies, and local communities with the ultimate goal of environmental cleanup. Finding common ground among the different objectives of various organizations led to the development of an action plan consisting of solutions that are the most effective, affordable, and acceptable in reducing water pollution and restoring wildlife habitats, while maintaining the river's economic vitality.

To restore the Elizabeth River to the highest practical level of environmental quality through government, business and community partnerships.

Since the Elizabeth Project was first formed, more than 1000 acres of watershed land have been conserved or restored, pollution has been reduced by more than 215 million pounds, and concentrations of marine pesticide have been reduced by six-fold. Twenty-seven species of fish and oysters are thriving in 22 restored wetlands, and two to five bald eagle nests have been sighted each year since 2003.