No-swim advisory issued after sewage releases into the James River

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Due to sewage, the Virginia Department of Health issued a recreational water advisory for part of the James River on Wednesday.

“For the safety of people and pets, VDH is advising that recreational water activities, such as swimming, wading, tubing, and whitewater kayaking (where submersion in the water is likely), should be avoided,” VDH said.

The advisory is in place from the Manchester Bridge (9th Street) in Richmond to Osborne Landing in Henrico County.

VDH says a sewer release near the Pipeline Trail, along the James River, was first reported to the Department of Environmental Quality on July 16.

“The COR DPU is in the process of shutting down the pipeline and making assessments. Repairs will begin as soon as possible,” VDH said. “DEQ is conducting water sampling along the James River to assist VDH in determining advisory updates. Additional samples will be taken once the sewer repair is complete.”

VDH says activities like boating and fishing can continue “with proper caution to avoid contact with the water.”

They also say there is no impact on drinking water at this time.

The City of Richmond said in a statement:

“Repairs of this 42” pipe will begin within the next 24 hours. Repairs include installation of large inflatable plugs, isolation of the damaged line segment to prevent any additional flow and a temporary patch to the impacted area of the pipe. The City believes this immediate response will eliminate further impacts to the river. The long-term solution requires more in-depth design and coordination as this 42” pipe is elevated above the river, where access is a challenge.”

In the meantime, you can monitor bacteria levels in the impacted areas on the James River Watch website.

VDH says they will lift the advisory when the pipe is fixed and bacteria levels return to normal.