Habitat

Underwater Grasses - 40%
(+10% 2-Year Change)

The resurgence of underwater grasses in parts of the James River is a positive sign for river health. These grasses provide habitat for juvenile fish, crabs and waterfowl. They also help trap sediment pollution and help clear the water which in turn can enable more grasses to get the sunlight they need to live. Underwater grass acreage has reached its highest levels in 30 years and now covers 40% of the goal set for the James River by the state. However, while underwater grasses are thriving in many of the tidal tributaries to the James, as well as above the falls, there are still no underwater grass beds anywhere on the main stem of the James River from Richmond to the James River Bridge in Newport News due to poor water clarity.

Riparian Forests - 80%
(+7% 2-Year Change)

Riparian forests along streams, creeks and the river play a vital role in the aquatic ecosystem, as well as in stream bank stabilization and filtering pollution from the runoff before it can enter the water. The JRA benchmark is for 85% of stream banks in the James River basin to be forested, and the current status of riparian forests meets 80% of that goal. However, with continued development in many parts of the watershed, these critical habitats are at risk and every opportunity to restore and protect forests along streams and creeks must be pursued.

Stream Condition – 53%
(-1% 2-Year Change)

The health of the James River is largely a reflection of the health of the 15,000 miles of streams that flow into it. Additionally, local streams and creeks are a valuable resource for the communities they flow through. Currently, 61% of the James River’s streams are categorized as being in good or excellent condition. Although this level of stream health is higher than others in the state, many streams are still under moderate to severe stress and substantial restoration efforts, as well as land use management and water management, will be essential to return them to good health.

Tidal Water Quality –56%
(+4% 2-Year Change)

Oxygen levels, algae levels and water clarity are key indicators of water quality in the tidal James River. Currently, the James River on average meets the state water quality standards for each just 56% of the time. Dissolved oxygen levels, which are essential for fish and aquatic animals to live, are generally healthy in the James River. However, the tidal James River continues to have problems with excessive algae growth and water clarity remains very poor, meeting the state standard only 6% of the time. Algae growth and poor water clarity are caused by too much pollution, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment.