FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2022
Fish Kill Confirmed in Tributary of Meadow Creek
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The City’s Environmental Sustainability Office received a report earlier this week from a resident regarding dead fish in a tributary of Meadow Creek in the vicinity of Cedars Court. Charlottesville Fire Department staff conducted preliminary investigations and upon confirmation, the situation was reported to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). At this time, no known source of pollution has been identified as the cause of the fish kill. There does not appear to be an ongoing water quality concern in this area.
The City conducted initial, limited water quality testing and coordinated with the Rivanna Conservation Alliance (RCA) to collect additional parameters on March 28. DEQ biologists came on site the following day to conduct an impact assessment and reported 842 dead fish, 130 dead salamanders, and 40 dead worms. Despite further exploration of potential sources by City staff, no source or responsible party has been identified. It is likely that this is a case of illegal dumping of a chemical or toxic product.
(pictures provided by DEQ)
This incident occurred in a local waterway that is a tributary of Meadow Creek. Meadow Creek flows through the northern portion of the City to the Rivanna River. The City appreciates the attention of our residents to observe and promptly report abnormal stream conditions. These additional community eyes on our waterways are an important way we can protect Charlottesville’s natural resources.
For additional information regarding this water quality situation, please contact the City's Water Resources Specialist Dan Frisbee at 434-970-3997 or frisbee@charlottesville.gov .
Media Contact
David Dillehunt
Interim Deputy Director of Communications
City of Charlottesville
434-970-3114
dillehunt@charlottesville.gov
