Southern Rivers Watershed
Projects to reduce recurring flooding and sea level rise effects throughout the Southern Watershed.
Projects to reduce recurring flooding and sea level rise effects throughout the Southern Watershed.
The City of Virginia Beach is comprised of 5 major watersheds: Lynnhaven, Oceanfront, Elizabeth River, Little Creek and Southern Rivers. The Southern Rivers Watershed is the largest, encompassing approximately 205 square miles in Virginia Beach or 67% of the area within the City limits. The Southern Rivers Watershed is made up of secondary watersheds called Back Bay, North Landing River, Northwest River, and Small Coastal South.
The Southern Rivers Watershed has significant environmental, ecological, and economic value as it is home to:
As such, Stormwater Management and Water Quality efforts are critical to maintaining the health of the ecosystem that is the Southern Rivers Watershed.
As a result of assessing wind tides, groundwater, sea level rise, stormwater management, water quality, marsh resiliency, and natural/nature-based features, three projects are underway as part of the Flood Protection Program: