In 2021, Newport News Waterworks alerted the Virginia Department of Quality (DEQ) to elevated PFAS concentrations in the Middle Chickahominy River watershed. In response, DEQ, the Virginia Department of Health, and Henrico County have coordinated a joint response focused on identifying and mitigating any potential risks to public health.
After collecting fish tissue, sediment, and surface water samples at locations throughout the watershed, including Chickahominy Lake, agencies determined that levels appear to be highest in White Oak Swamp. The partners will continue collecting data and federal technical and policy recommendations regarding PFAS as they develop, and will use this information, along with additional monitoring datasets, to inform the response.
To learn more about the Middle Chickahominy PFAS response, view the interactive Story Map and webpage, which will be updated with additional information.
