What is the water quality grade for Lower Blackwater River Lake?

Lower Blackwater River Lake in Franklin County, Virginia received a water quality grade of A (Excellent). Water clarity: 12.1 ft visibility. Phosphorus: 10 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a (algae): 2.3 µg/L.

Is Lower Blackwater River Lake safe to swim in?

Excellent for swimming, crystal clear water with minimal algae. Lower Blackwater River Lake has an overall water quality grade of A. Algae concentration (chlorophyll-a) is 2.3 µg/L. Always check local health department advisories before swimming.

Franklin County, Virginia

Lower Blackwater River Lake

Grade AExcellent · 12.1 ft clarity

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Oligotrophic

Lower Blackwater River Lake is a cold, clear oligotrophic lake in Franklin County, Virginia. Water quality is graded A based on 2 sampling years through 2026. Compared to the 13 other monitored lakes in Franklin County, Lower Blackwater River Lake ranks #1 for water quality.

Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Virginia DNR, last sampled 2026-06-16. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.

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Swimming Safety

Excellent for swimming, crystal clear water with minimal algae

Water Quality Grade: A, Excellent

Good clarity, visible to about 12.1 ft. Phosphorus level: 10 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a: 2.3 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 39.

Metric	Value	Grade
Water Clarity (Secchi Depth)	12.1 ft	B
Phosphorus	10 µg/L	A
Chlorophyll-a (Algae)	2.3 µg/L	A
Trophic State Index (TSI)	39	Oligotrophic

Low nutrients, clear water, excellent for swimming

Where to stay near Lower Blackwater River Lake

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