Algal Mats Impair North Fork Shenandoah River

The North Fork Shenandoah River is once again experiencing excessive algal growth, restricting the community's full use of the river for fishing and swimming.  

The Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) algal mat alert spans approximately 11 miles of the river from Deer Rapids to the Town of Strasburg, and community observations of the algae persist. The VDH’s investigation revealed widespread and unavoidable algal mats potentially producing toxins. 

If ingested, the algae’s toxins can be fatal for dogs and other animals. Disturbing the mats can pose human health risks as well. According to VDH, drinking water is not affected at this time.  

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Virginia Watershed Restoration Scientist Matt Kowalski issued the following statement:  

“These hot summer days help create a perfect storm for the North Fork of the Shenandoah River. Higher water temperatures from hotter weather, low water levels, and pollutants from sources like lawns, parking lots, and farm fields cause these algal mats. That shouldn’t be the case for the river in your own backyard. The community should be able to swim and fish in our river.” 

“This algal mat occurrence highlights the importance of nutrient management plans in order to reduce pollution to our local waterways. In an area with as much agriculture as the Shenandoah Valley, we should ensure fertilizers are applied at rates and using techniques that protect water quality.”   

Laura Bennett, Executive Director of Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, issued the following statement:  

“People love to swim and fish in the North Fork Shenandoah River and bike near the water. In the middle of summer, excess nutrients entering the Shenandoah River fuel these algal mats and too often restrict or prevent the water from being enjoyed by our community. It stresses why tree plantings and managed applications of fertilizer are so important to keep our water safe.”