The Narrows
The Narrows Water Quality
The Narrows is a narrow tidal waterway connecting Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay in Virginia Beach, near the 64th Street entrance to First Landing State Park. Its sheltered shoreline, tidal currents, and nearby boating activity create distinct conditions that can affect local water quality.
Factors Affecting Water Quality
Tidal exchange: Water movement through the narrow channel influences how bacteria, nutrients, and other pollutants disperse.
Stormwater runoff: Rain washes bacteria, fertilizers, oil, and sediment from developed areas into nearby waterways.
Boating activity: Boat traffic can contribute fuel residues, waste, and sediment disturbance.
Residential development: Runoff from nearby properties can introduce nutrients and contaminants into Broad and Linkhorn Bays.
Sediment disturbance: Currents, boat wakes, and storms can stir up sediment, increasing turbidity.
Sewage and animal waste: Sewer leaks, overflows, and wildlife waste can introduce harmful bacteria, particularly after heavy rainfall.
Monitoring bacterial levels, turbidity, and recent rainfall can help assess water quality at The Narrows. Local sampling is especially important because conditions in this tidal channel may differ from those at nearby oceanfront beaches.