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View of the James River in the Varina District, which has more undeveloped land than any other major district in Henrico.
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science recently released its annual report on the health of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The James River once again received the highest rating of all major tributaries, with an overall grade of B.
It was the 14th consecutive year that the James River scored highest on the State of Environment Report Card of all the bay’s tributaries. Overall, the bay earned a C+ score (55%) – the highest since 2002.
The report takes into account ecological, social and economic indicators. The overall health of the Bay’s watershed dropped to a C (52%). The upper James River watershed remained the highest scoring area, the only area to receive a B (Good) rating. The Middle James and Lower James sections of the watershed fall in the C (Poor) range.
The James River’s score dropped three points this year compared to last year, due to declines in water quality and benthic community (the ecological community at the lowest level of a water body).
“This report highlights significant long-term progress for the James River, but this year’s lower score highlights the challenges that remain,” said Bill Street, CEO of the James River Association. “Poor water clarity and benthic communities can hinder the recovery of habitats and ecosystems that are vital to many fish and wildlife species, including the endangered American shad.
“These results underscore the need to maintain public investment levels in reducing polluted runoff from cities and to work with farmers to prevent nutrient and sediment pollution from entering local waterways.”
