Lack of Rainfall Impacts Lake Anna Water Quality Improvement Efforts

August 2024 – The ongoing lack of rainfall this summer has impacted water quality improvement efforts in the North Anna River, according to the Lake Anna Advisory Committee (LAAC). The reduced water flow has hindered the committee’s ability to meet its goal of reducing phosphorus levels by 10% at three key monitoring stations.

In contract with EutroPHIX, a water treatment company, the LAAC has been working to decrease excess phosphorus, a nutrient that can lead to harmful algal blooms and other water quality issues. (See What’s Happening with the HAB Treatment). However, lower-than-expected flow rates in the North Anna River have limited the effectiveness of the treatment chemicals being injected upstream. Achieving phosphorus reduction goals has been a challenge due to the reduced water flow.

To address these challenges and ensure that the required amount of treatment chemicals is delivered, the LAAC has announced two direct applications of the chemicals to Lake Anna. The first application is scheduled for August 15th, with a follow-up treatment on August 26th, though these dates may change depending on weather and lake conditions.

Despite the setbacks, the LAAC emphasizes that the chemicals used are safe for both humans and aquatic life, with approval from Dominion Energy and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR).

As the summer’s dry conditions persist, the LAAC remains committed to adapting its strategies to achieve the 10% phosphorus reduction goal and safeguard the water quality of Lake Anna.

For a detailed overview, read this remediation update from LAAC

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