The Waterworks Department continually
looks for non-city owned properties that drain to the reservoirs to consider for purchase when there are water quality benefits. When purchased, impervious surfaces, structures, underground tanks and trash are removed and the areas are reforested and protected from development. Waterworks has acquired 10 adjacent properties totaling over 177 acres within the past 10 years.
The most recent purchase was an 11.71 acre parcel in York County located on a tributary of the Poquoson River headwaters, which drains to Harwood’s Mill Reservoir. The parcel contained an abandoned house, shed, barn, septic tank and trash. All structures were demolished and the septic tank was removed from the site, along with debris and trash. All metal and tires collected were recycled.
Non-native and over mature trees were harvested and non-native invasive plants eradicated. The area will be reforested with approximately 4,500 tree seedlings.
This purchase prevents the property from being developed. It will be returned to a natural, forested site that helps to protect the water quality of the reservoir.