The Story
Why is there extremely low density in this part of Northern Virginia? The area is in high demand and lots of development surrounds it. Is this just another example of NIMBYism?
Not exactly, the area is part of the Occoquan Watershed, which contains a basin that feeds into a reservoir downstream. The Occoquan Reservoir serves as one of only two
primary drinking water supplies for over 800,000 northern Virginians.
The reservoir was developed in the 1950s. But a decade later, unanticipated urban growth in the upper Occoquan Watershed led to increased discharges of domestic wastes and urban stormwater into the reservoir. In addition, conventional agriculture resulted in greater soil erosion and nutrient runoff.
The reservoir experienced massive algal blooms, declining fish populations, and taste problems associated with the drinking water.
However, it was an irreplaceable water source for the area. The Virginia State Water Control Board commissioned studies to reduce further ecological damage.
The report recommended that wastewater from the basin be exported to another watershed, advanced wastewater treatment practices be adopted, and the Occoquan Basin's population be limited.