Watch the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir Silt In
Sediment coming from the many tributaries
of the SFRR contribute to its siltation
A view from the Ivy Creek Natural Area. Martin's Branch leading into Ivy Creek (SF Rivanna Reservoir.) Pass your mouse on and off the image
The SFRR has a very large watershed. A major issue in the watershed is sedimentation. The SFRR has lost an average of 15 million gallons of capacity each year since it was created in 1966 due to sedimentation that comes from an increase in roads, driveways, rooftops and lawns along the tributaries closest to the reservoir.
The most important source of protection for the SFRR ecosystem is natural forest. The leaves of the forest as well as roots and leaf litter intercept rainwater reducing its impact on soil, stream bank erosion, and flooding.
The SFRR watershed falls almost entirely within the County of Albemarle, putting prime responsibility for its care in local hands. Protection of the natural forest is imperative to assure a clean and safe drinking water supply.