Transformation of Land

— Dutch Gap Conservation Area - A Changing Story —

Civilization has dramatically transformed the landscape. Before 1930s, the land around you was probably swamp and bottomland forest. From the 1930s to around the 1960s, companies mined the area for sand and gravel. During this time, the large open pit was created from mining. Later, in an effort to load barges more easily with sand and gravel, a channel was cut between the pit and the old James River channel. The James River flooded the pit and created what is now a tidal lagoon.

Tempered by time and nature, this area teems with wildlife. The sunken barges provide habitat for small fish and a feeding site for predatory fish such as bass. Deer seek refuge i on the islands, great blue heron stalk prey along the shoreline, river otters play in the lagoon, and cormorants roost on exposed barges. Nature has reclaimed this land.

Signs of mining still exists. The man-made channel still links the lagoon to the old river channel. One end of the channel can be seen slightly to your left. The islands, created by the mining operations, reveal the dredged materials (spoils) and the skeletons of old sunken barges.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Chester, VA  |  Chesterfield County  |  23836  |  Virginia  |  United States of America

Chief Opechancanouch
The Bermuda Hundred Campaign
The Bermuda Hundred Campaign
The Bermuda Hundred Campaign
Mount Malady
Henricopolis
The James River...Floating Through The Centuries
Dutch Gap
The Tides
The Lightkeeper's House

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.