The Virginia Department of Health has closed large portions of the Poquoson River to shellfish harvesting after untreated sewage entered the water. The closure affects stretches upstream of coordinates (37°11’35.1",-76°23’25.3") and (37°10’13.4",-76°21’01.3") in York County and the City of Poquoson. Areas will remain closed for 21 days after repairs are completed under National Shellfish Sanitation Program rules. The advisory targets bivalves such as oysters and clams because they can concentrate harmful bacteria and viruses.
Untreated Sewage Forces Closure of Much of the Poquoson River to Shellfish Harvesting
Virginia health officials have closed large portions of the Poquoson River to shellfish harvesting after untreated sewage entered the water, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) said.
What Happened
The closure takes effect Wednesday and will remain in place for at least several weeks while officials assess and repair the source of the discharge. VDH said the affected stretches are upstream of the following map coordinates: (37°11’35.1",-76°23’25.3") and (37°10’13.4",-76°21’01.3").
Who Is Affected
The ban covers most of the Poquoson River within York County and the City of Poquoson. Under National Shellfish Sanitation Program regulations, the closed areas will remain off-limits to shellfish harvesting for 21 days after repairs are completed.
Health Risk
Only bivalve shellfish — such as oysters and clams — are considered unsafe because they can concentrate bacteria and viruses from contaminated water and are often eaten raw. VDH emphasized that crabs and finfish are not included in this advisory.
Next Steps
Officials have not yet determined how the sewage was released into the river. A VDH spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday evening. Residents and harvesters should check VDH updates before harvesting in the area.
Report by Gavin Stone. Contact: gavin.stone@virginiamedia.com
