The Task Force on the Future of Lake Accotink, established at the June 6 Board of Supervisors meeting, will hold their first meeting on Monday, June 26, at 7 p.m. at the Government Center. The task force will produce findings that will inform the Board of Supervisors’ decision regarding the future of Lake Accotink.
Lake Accotink Park attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually with its stunning trails, picturesque picnic areas and engaging waterfront activities. The 55-acre manmade reservoir, which was built by the U.S. Army, has required regular dredging due to sedimentation. However, extensive analysis by Fairfax County staff has led to the recommendation against further dredging due to significant costs, environmental impacts, and difficulties in processing and disposing of sediment. The staff proposes restarting the Park's Master Planning process with a focus on fostering a sustainable future for the lake and the park.
The task force will review past studies about dredging and ensure comprehensive exploration of all options to preserve Lake Accotink in the most sustainable, equitable and cost-effective manner. It will identify crucial questions to be addressed if the board decides to explore a managed wetland or hybrid option. The group will also consider the environmental impact, effects on surrounding communities, recreational park usage and financing implications, including ongoing maintenance.
“This task force will enable community members to be at the table to ensure that options are thoroughly explored, and that questions from the public are answered,” said Braddock District Supervisor James R. Walkinshaw.
Former Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova will lead the task force, and it will include representatives from the community, environmental groups and nonprofit organizations.
The task force meeting schedule is below. Learn more about Lake Accotink on the Public Works and Environmental Services webpage.
Meeting Schedule at the Government Center (Conference Rooms 2 and 3)
- Monday, June 26, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Monday, July 10, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Monday, July 24, 7 to 9 p.m.