Flag Run Inspection
November 2014

County inspector's report from Flag Run, responding to concerns of a neighbor who cares:

On November 9, 2014, you had brought to Fairfax County’s attention a number of issues regarding Flag Run near I-495. The following is a summary of Fairfax County’s investigation and findings regarding these issues:

1. Litter at outfall serving Port Royal Road: On 11/14/14, I walked portions of Flag Run with you and we noted some litter behind fencing and some at the outfalls. The litter I observed was primarily plastic bottles and empty bags. I did not observe any litter with company logos that could be tied to a business; hence, I cannot prove that any particular business is the responsible party. I drove by some businesses on Port Royal Road and spoke with a few that had overflowing dumpsters and requested the dumpsters be picked up. I also referred these businesses to Fairfax County Solid Waste. An inspector from Fairfax County Solid Waste has conducted their own investigation and is working with some of the Port Royal Road businesses and property owners to improve dumpster management. Please note that the County does not have a program for regularly cleaning up trash; however, if we knew a business was responsible for the litter then we can enforce the regulations. Also, be aware that volunteer groups have conducted stream cleanups with local businesses.

2. Pool of water from Port Royal Road Outfall: On 11/14/14, I collected a sample from this pool and did not detect any physical indicators of petroleum; however, field analysis of this sample indicated high levels of detergents. I inspected Port Royal Road businesses that day but did not observe any washing activities. This area is noted and I will periodically inspect Port Royal Road to identify the source.

3. I have informed Fairfax County Maintenance & Stormwater Management Division that the outfall from Port Royal Road is being undermined. They are looking into the issue.

I hope with more outreach and inspection of these businesses that there is an improvement to Flag Run. If you have any additional questions regarding this information, please contact us.

Stormwater Planning Division
Fairfax County
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/stormwater
- December 2, 2014

Flag Run in the vicinity of Port Royal Road

CONTACT Friends of Accotink Creek