Lamberts Point Open Space
Lamberts Point Open Space Water Quality
Lamberts Point Open Space overlooks the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, beside Old Dominion University and near Norfolk Southern’s major coal-export terminal. The surrounding waterfront combines university development, coal handling, commercial shipping, and industrial infrastructure, making it an important location for monitoring urban and industrial impacts on water quality.
Factors Affecting Water Quality
Coal handling: Coal dust and runoff from storage and loading areas may introduce suspended solids and associated contaminants into nearby waters.
Industrial stormwater: Rain can wash sediment, metals, oils, and other pollutants from rail yards, paved surfaces, and industrial facilities into the Elizabeth River.
Ship traffic and port operations: Vessel activity, fuel residues, and disturbed bottom sediment can affect water quality.
University runoff: Rainwater draining from Old Dominion University’s buildings, parking lots, and roads can carry litter, nutrients, and other urban pollutants toward nearby waterways.
Legacy contamination: Decades of industrial activity along the Elizabeth River make sediment contamination an important concern, although conditions vary by location.
Shoreline erosion: Waves and ship wakes can disturb sediment and increase turbidity. A recently completed living shoreline at the coal terminal uses marsh vegetation and oyster habitat to reduce erosion and trap sediment.
Because this is an industrial waterfront, water quality measurements should not be treated as proof of swimming safety; use appropriate laboratory methods and official advisories when evaluating recreational contact.
