By Harry Looney – August 2025

Thanks to persistent efforts by the Lake Anna Civic Association (LACA) and the support of our elected officials, a significant new program is launching to improve Lake Anna's water quality. The Virginia General Assembly has provided $750,000 in funding to tackle the root cause of harmful algal blooms (HABs): excess phosphorus.

The Lake Anna Advisory Committee (LAAC) will lead this five-year initiative, known as the Phosphorus Remediation Program (PRP). The primary goal is to restore the upper reservoir's ecological balance by reducing phosphorus levels below a target of 30 parts per billion. As you can see from the data visualization of phosphorus levels in the upper reservoir, many areas are well above the desired level of 30 parts per billion.

Data Visualization of Total Phosphorus Levels – June 2025 LACA and DEQ sampling
(values are measured in parts per billion)

This new program builds on successful pilot projects conducted in 2024 on the North Anna River and Terry's Run. The results from those efforts proved that new treatment methods can effectively reduce phosphorus, leading to a healthier environment for fish, plants, and recreational activities.

Based on these positive outcomes, the LAAC recently selected EutroPHIX, a division of the SePRO Corporation, from four different proposals to lead the Phosphorus Remediation Program. Their plan is a comprehensive, multi-year approach that includes:

·         Treating lake sediment in the North Anna River and Pamunkey Creek to inactivate existing phosphorus.

·         Preventing new phosphorus from entering the lake from the North Anna River watershed by injecting special binding chemicals.

·         Monitoring and planning for similar treatments in Pamunkey Creek in the future.

·         Continuous testing of the water and sediment to ensure the treatments are working effectively and safely.

This is a long-term commitment. The PRP is designed to gradually reduce phosphorus year after year, avoiding any sudden shock to the environment. While the initial year is fully funded by the state, LACA will continue to seek additional funding from state, federal, and grant sources to ensure this vital work continues. This is a major step forward in our mission to protect and preserve Lake Anna for everyone.

harry.looney@lakeannavirginia.org