Fairfax City To Conduct Stream Condition Assessments In New Year

Press release from the City of Fairfax :

11/29/2022 1:23 PM

Fairfax City Stormwater Management Division staff will assess the main stem of Accotink Creek and all of its tributaries starting in December. Residents may observe staff wearing fluorescent safety vests as they document and rate conditions in the stream corridors. The stream condition assessment is expected to conclude in April 2023.

The city’s current water quality and quantity improvement plans are based on a 2008 stream assessment. The new data gathered by the team will be evaluated to determine which stream segments require attention. Factors such as streambank and streambed erosion and conditions in the floodplain, RPA, and at outfalls (where stormwater runoff enters creeks) will be recorded and rated.

Accotink Creek originates in Fairfax City and flows south toward the Potomac River. The city is responsible for the quality of the water within its borders. Stream restoration and other projects implemented in the upper reaches of Accotink Creek have a positive impact on water quality downstream. In addition to existing conditions, the team will assess the performance of previously restored stream segments.

The assessment will occur along Accotink Creek and all of its branches, including unnamed tributaries. Staff may be observed in the following areas:

For questions or concerns, call 703-273-6073 or email stormwater@fairfaxva.gov.

This press release was produced by the City of Fairfax. The views expressed here are the author’s own.