By Barbara Aikens - May 2026

To promote safe boating on public waters, Virginia has adopted a system of uniform regulatory markers or buoys. Virginia Code mandates that “a system of regulatory markers and a lateral buoyage marking system of aids to navigation be adopted on all public waters of the Commonwealth not marked by an agency of the United States”.  All state laws regarding regulatory waterway markers designating controlled, hazardous, or exclusionary zones are applicable to Lake Anna. Lake Anna does not have navigational markers.

The hundreds of buoys on Lake Anna are critical to the safety of everyone on or in the water, whether they are boating, skiing/wake surfing, jet skiing, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.

TYPES OF BUOYS

There are three types of regulatory buoys on Lake Anna.  

Controlled Area:  Signified by an open circle. 

These buoys mark areas where speed, wake, or other activity is controlled for safety reasons.  Found at the bridges, waterfront businesses and marinas, HOA Common Area boat slips, heads of narrow coves, and along the shoreline of individual or groups of waterfront property owners, these buoys comprise the majority of buoys on Lake Anna.  They primarily mark designated areas of NO WAKE/IDLE SPEED and are enforceable by officers patrolling the Lake.  There are also DWR approved NO WAKE SURFING regulatory buoys in the northern channels of the lake where it is generally too shallow or narrow to safely wake surf. 

Danger Area:  Signified by an open diamond. 

Give these a wide berth.  They mark areas that are hazardous to vessel operation – submerged rocks, unexpected shoals and shallows and other underwater hazards. 

Exclusion Area: Signified by a cross in the center of an open diamond.

These mark a limited number of areas on Lake Anna where vessels are prohibited – the dam, in front of the North Anna Nuclear Power Plant, and the area of the effluent pipe at the Lake Anna Townhomes.

The author is not aware of any Informational waterway markers (square symbol) located on Lake Anna.

WHO APPROVES THE PLACEMENT OF BUOYS ON LAKE ANNA?

The placement and removal of ALL buoys (No Wake, Hazard, and Exclusion Area) on the public side of Lake Anna is fully regulated by the Boating Division of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) per Virginia code. The application and approval process is uniform for ALL applicants – businesses, marinas, waterfront property owners, HOAs, the Lake Anna State Park, and the Lake Anna Advisory Committee on behalf of the three counties.  Even Dominion must file an application with DWR to place a marker on the public side. 

Dominion is the sole authority for the placement and removal of all buoys on the WHTF.

The application process begins at the county level. Detailed information on how to apply for a buoy on Lake Anna is available on the Louisa County website at https://www.louisacounty.gov/1800/Buoys. 

Note that the Lake Anna Advisory Committee (LAAC) does not approve or deny buoy applications.  LAAC serves only in an advisory capacity on behalf of county officials by forwarding their recommendations to DWR or Dominion as part of the overall application process.

WHO OWNS AND MAINTAINS BUOYS ON LAKE ANNA? 

Once the placement of a buoy has been approved by DWR or Dominion, maintenance of that buoy becomes the responsibility of the individual/s, business, or county/agency who made the application.  Any marker or buoy that is not in conformance with state regulations may be removed by DWR. Written approval of DWR or Dominion must be obtained before relocating or removing any buoy.

The Lake Anna Advisory Committee is mandated by Louisa, Spotsylvania, and Orange Counties to maintain over 60 approved buoys.  Currently, LAAC maintains 28 NO WAKE/IDLE SPEED buoys at ten bridges and 38 HAZARD buoys. All are marked with lights which must be replaced on a regular basis.   

HOW DOES LAAC MAINTAIN THE COUNTY BUOYS?

The three counties allocate varying levels of yearly funding to support LAAC’s Buoy Maintenance Program. Those allocations were used solely to procure buoys, lights, rehab materials, and anchoring hardware.

Labor support for the Program was performed by a team of dedicated volunteers managed by Jean McCormick, former Chair of LAAC’s Safety & Navigation Subcommittee. This work included retrieving/setting (often using their personal boats), regularly monitoring, rehab/repair of buoys, outfitting buoys with anchoring systems, and ordering supplies. Much of the maintenance work involves heavy physical labor and many of the volunteers were senior citizens. The Program was fortunate to also have volunteer labor assistance from the Spotsylvania County Dive Team and the former owner of TowBoat US. 

In 2024, the Program lost its primary labor support volunteer when the owner of TowBoat US sold his company. Even then, the volunteers labored to get the work done, sometimes with the assistance of the Spotsylvania County Dive Team. However, it quickly became apparent that this was not a feasible long-term solution. 

Thus, in 2025, LAAC applied for and, in January 2026, was awarded a $9,600 grant from the FY26 Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund.  These funds will now be used to procure supplies, freeing up county allocations to fund labor support services.  LAAC already has a contract in place with the new owners of TowBoat US for labor support services.

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT SAFETY ON LAKE ANNA?

We all know that the last few years have witnessed a significant increase in the recreational use of Lake Anna. Moreover, the types of watercraft on the lake have also increased in size, speed, and the amount of wake they generate. These images depict common problems we encounter on a weekly basis in the summer – stolen and vandalized lights, vandalized caps which allow the buoy to take on water and eventually sink, and serious boat strikes.  In addition, buoys drift off location, go missing, and some are simply aging beyond repair. 

Buoy damaged beyond repair by boat strike and failing/sinking buoy

LAAC’s buoys are safety buoys, not convenience buoys.  When they are damaged or go missing, the potential for safety related incidents and accidents increases.  LAAC faces an ever increasing and urgent need to replace or repair damaged and destroyed buoys.  

BUT LAAC can only retrieve and repair buoys in a timely fashion if they know about the problem in a timely fashion. This is how the community can help LAAC keep the lake safe. 

ADOPT A BUOY

LAAC is asking you to spread the word about our new “Adopt A Buoy” Program.  Based on a similar program at Smith Mountain Lake, it is simply an updated version of Jean McCormick’s “Buoy Watchers”.  Adopters select a specific buoy that they can monitor from their homes or businesses on a year-round basis and notify LAAC immediately if they note any problems, damages, vandalism, etc.  LAAC will then record the notifications and establish maintenance priorities.  So far, 29 buoys have been adopted by 13 adopters since launching the Program late last fall.  But...we still have over 30 buoys that need to be adopted! Many of those are on the northern end of the lake.

ADOPT A BUOY

LAKE ANNA ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Adopt-a-Buoy Volunteer Program

Help keep Lake Anna safe by “adopting” one of over 60 Regulatory Buoys owned and maintained by the three counties - either a No Wake Buoy at one of the bridges or a Hazard Buoy. Adopters will monitor a single buoy or set of buoys they can see from their homes or businesses on a regular basis. They will quickly notify LAAC if these buoys are missing or damaged, including lights.

Interested residents please inquire and receive a list of adoptable buoys and their locations.

LAACBUOYS@GMAIL.COM

Barbara Aikens

Lake Anna Advisory Committee, Safety & Navigation Subcommittee Chair

aikensb60@gmail,com

By Jean McCormick - May 2026

The Sea-Doo “SWITCH” has been recalled after multiple capsizes, resulting in several fatalities and injuries, were reported on a safety alert by the U.S. Coast Guard issued on the recall. These capsizings occurred when the vessel was operated with trim by the bow and the bow ‘digging into’ the water the alert reads. Weather conditions and poor seamanship do not appear to be significant contributing factors. 

“The ‘SWITCH’ is designed such that while at rest, the center hull allows water to enter the hull , and while operating on plane, the captured water empties.  However, until the hull completely empties out, trim by the bow can occur, especially with passenger weight forward.  The dynamics are such that any abrupt change in speed or direction could induce forces sufficient to cause capsizing, especially when slowing down toward idle speed.

The recall remedy includes installing three gaskets.  ‘SWITCH’ owners are directed to schedule an appointment with any authorized BRP Sea-Doo ‘SWITCH’ dealer to have the safety recall repair performed.

Until the modifications are made, the Coast Guard strongly recommend Sea-Doo ‘Switch’ operators take the following precautions:

•      Avoid operating with any bow trim and keep weight distribution toward the stern.                  
•      Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction at non-plane speeds.
•      If bow trim occurs, gradually reduce the throttle and reposition passengers farther aft.
•      When approaching coming off of plane, exercise awareness of instability or nosediving.

The Sea-Doo ‘SWITCH’ was introduced in 2022 as an entry level boat:  a 13-to-21 foot tri-hull pontoon boat with jet drive propulsion options from 100-230 hp.  Last fall, the parent company, BOMBARDIER Recreational Products, issued a recall that cites a risk of capsizing due to front end overload.

jean.mccormick@lakeannavirginia.org

By Bill Hariu - May 2026

LACA is guided by a set of by-laws and articles of incorporation. It has met the requirements to be a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. LACA is an all-volunteer organization.

Lake Anna Civic Association’s mission is to preserve and protect the cleanliness, beauty, and safe use of Lake Anna and its watershed through communication, advocacy, education, and community involvement to benefit the membership and all lake users.

LACA’s annual election is coming up in a few months, and we encourage members to run for Officer positions & Regional Directors positions. The following LACA positions are up for election this year: Vice President, Secretary, Assistant Treasurer. Also 3 Regional Directors, each shall be elected for two-year (2) terms. Election of Officers and Directors shall be held in conjunction with the Annual Meeting.

All LACA members are eligible to submit their name as a nominee. LACA is always seeking a wider base of membership involvement and looks forward to welcoming new members to the Board. The LACA Board meets the first Thursday of the month and the LACA annual meeting this year is on August 1, 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:

All officers shall be elected by the membership, and each candidate must be a member in good standing.

The Vice‐President shall assume the duties of the President in his/her absence, and other duties as may be defined by the Board and shall coordinate the activities of the Committee Chairpersons with the Board.

The Secretary shall prepare the minutes of all meetings and shall be responsible for membership records, correspondence, the corporate books and records, and compliance with applicable state and local corporate reporting requirements.

The Assistant Treasurer shall work with the Treasurer receive, disburse, and account for Association funds; report thereon at each Board meeting; file annual tax returns; and comply with tax exempt reporting requirements. At the discretion of the Board, the Assistant Treasurer may be bonded.

LACA Regional Directors must own or rent property within the Region they represent.

LACA Regional Directors Election for the Following Regions:

Region #2 - Regional Director, 
Region 2 (Jackson/Cuckoo Public Side) is the area of the lake that is the combination of the Cuckoo #1 and Cuckoo #3 voting precincts in the Cuckoo voting district of Louisa County whose members own property that is on the “public side” of Lake Anna.

This is further defined as follows:

East/Northeast of Dikes 1, 2 and 3 to include properties east of Carr’s Bridge Road and North of Burruss Mill Road/Lake Anna Drive (Route 690) up to the common area of Both Waters subdivision and east of Twin Lakes Lane and North of Moody Town Road (Route 622) from where it intersects with Twin Lakes Lane. Also, those properties North of Moody Town and Eastham Road (Route 701) to the Spotsylvania County line.

Region #4 - Regional Director,
Region 4 (Brokenburg) is the area of the lake whose members own property in the Fire Rescue 2 voting precinct in the Livingston voting district of Spotsylvania County.

Region #6 - Regional Director, Region 6 Region 6 (Mineral) is the area of the lake whose members own property in the Mineral #1, voting precinct of Louisa County.

LACA Regional Directors Major responsibilities are:

Support the Mission Work and Objectives of LACA Support the work of your LACA board, preserving and protecting the waters of Lake Anna of Lake Anna.  Attend and contribute to LACA Board Meetings Attend meetings of the Board of Supervisors and the Planning Commission within their respective regions Coordinate participation in the HOA/POA President’s Council Attend the Lake Anna Advisory Committee (LAAC) as well as necessary if there is an issue that affects the represented region. Solicit new membership in your Lake Anna Region - Offer to meet with Property Owner Associations and Homeowner Associations of the represented region. Encourage their participation in LACA membership and activities. Establish communication with regional members /communities represented in the 6 regions surrounding Lake Anna as a means to inform constituents of actions taken by LACA and to solicit their input on current and future issues. Support the fight to defeat Harmful Algae Blooms and the No-Swim Advisories that accompany them.

Please submit your nominations before July 1, 2026 by email to

bill.hariu@lakeannavirginia.org 

By Sarah A. Marshall – February 2026

North Anna Power Station (North Anna, or NAPS), located at Lake Anna in Louisa County, Virginia, is a vital part of Virginia’s energy landscape. It produces over 15% of the energy generated by Dominion Energy in the Commonwealth, over 43% of its carbon-free energy, and provides enough safe, reliable, affordable, and carbon-free electricity to serve nearly 475,000 homes. The station was named after the North Anna River which was dammed to create Lake Anna (the public side) and the Waste Heat Treatment Facility (WHTF, or the private side).

North Anna is a nuclear power station, composed of two Westinghouse Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs). Both Unit 1 and Unit 2 produce roughly 945 MW each. Unit 1 began operations in 1978 and Unit 2 in 1980. In August 2024, The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) approved second license renewal applications for both units, allowing NAPS to continue to provide safe, reliable, affordable, and carbon-free electricity through 2058 (Unit 1) and 2060 (Unit 2). In addition, the station supports approximately 800 full-time employees and has provided over $422 million in local tax revenue since it began operations.

North Anna produces electricity by heating water to create steam, which turns a turbine producing electricity. The heat needed to carry out this process is created through nuclear fission. This process of creating heat is the primary difference between a nuclear power station and other traditional power stations (coal, natural gas, oil, biomass) and is what makes nuclear power a clean energy source.

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting an atom to produce carbon-free electricity. This process takes place inside the Reactor Vessel where a Pressurizer keeps water under high pressure so that it heats but does not boil. This is where the name for the type of Unit at North Anna – PWR – comes from.

Once pressurized, the water in the reactor loop carries heat to a Steam Generator, where water in a secondary loop is vaporized into steam. The steam is then pumped into a turbine, pushing giant blades to turn the electrical generator and produce electricity. After turning the turbines, unused steam is cooled and condensed by a third loop of cooling water pumped from Lake Anna a water source through the condenser. The condensed steam -- now water again -- is pumped back into the Steam Generator to be reheated and repeat the process.
 
The pressurized water in the reactor loop, the water in the Steam Generator, and the Lake Anna cooling water are three separate loops and never mix. This also means that the Lake Anna cooling water – which is withdrawn from Lake Anna (public side) and then discharged from North Anna into the Waste Heat Treatment Facility (WHTF, private side) – never comes in contact with the nuclear fuel.

Nuclear energy is by far America’s largest source of clean electricity, emitting no greenhouse gases or air pollutants, while producing substantial amounts of electricity around the clock. The long-term success of North Anna can be tied to the safety and reliability of nuclear fuel as well as the dedication of the employees who work there.

Provided by Dominion Energy

Sarah A. Marshall

By Maureen Daniels – February 2026

It’s that time of year so be sure to add water temperature to the things you should consider before heading out on the water. You likely know what the air temperature is, but do you have any idea what the water temperature is at Lake Anna? As I write this, the temp on Lake Anna is around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Dominion Energy website usually posts water temperature for the Lake.

So how could that affect you at this time of year on the water?

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, a sudden immersion into cold water, even on a warmish, sunny day, can bring on hypothermia in as little as 3-5 minutes. Cold water sucks heat from the body, and the body’s core temperature drops. This can lead to loss of consciousness and, ultimately, death.

Hypothermia happens very quickly.

What are the first symptoms of cold-water shock?

Initial “cold shock” occurs in the first 3-5 minutes of immersion in cold water. Sudden immersion into cold water can cause immediate, involuntary gasping; hyperventilation; panic; and vertigo—all of which can result in water inhalation —and drowning.

All of us know what various air temperatures feel like, so we dress accordingly. Many of us know how chilling that first dip into the Lake in May can feel. Jump in, gasp! Lips might turn blue. Get out, shiver. That is a mild case of hypothermia. Imagine being immersed in that cold water for any length of time. Most of us have never experienced being in extremely cold water, so it is hard to imagine the consequences.

Normal body temperature is about 98.6F. Treat any water temperature below 70F with caution. Swimming in temperatures below 70 degrees can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can put you at risk.

Prepare for the unexpected.

In the fall and winter, you are likely not planning to be in the water. However, capsizing, swamping, and falling overboard are leading causes of cold-water immersion—not planned events.

So, think about this. . .if you end up in the water, do you have a way to get back onto your boat, board, kayak or canoe?

Here’s what you can do to be safe and enjoy your time on the water . . .

1.     Wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket. It will not do you any good if you end up in the cold water and your life jacket is on the boat or paddle craft. A life jacket will increase your chances of surviving cold-water immersion. Even strong swimmers cannot function when hypothermic.

2.     Be sure whatever vessel you are using is in good shape—gassed up, charged battery, drain plug installed, appropriate paddles/oars.

3.     In paddle craft especially, keep a low center of gravity, distribute weight evenly.

4.     Let someone know that you are out on the water, where you expect to go, and when you plan to come off the water.

What you should do if you do end up in cold water . . .

1.      Try not to panic.

2.      Get your breathing under control

3.      Leave layers of clothing on to help prevent body heat loss

4.      If possible, stay with the vessel and get as much of your body out of the water as possible.

      Remember— your life jacket will help support you.

Lastly, seek medical help as soon as possible, as post-immersion collapse can happen during or after a rescue. A drop in blood pressure can lead to cardiac arrest.

On thin ice . . .

When in doubt, don’t go out! While some parts of the Lake may look like they are completely frozen over, do not take any chances. Ice freezes and thaws at different rates and ice thickness can vary depending on currents, springs, depth and debris in the water. This is another circumstance that puts you at high risk for hypothermia if you were to fall through the ice.

Don’t forget . . .

Protect your pets! They can be susceptible to the same health issues and life-threatening circumstances when in cold water. If it is too cold for you to be in the water, it could be too cold for them, as well. If you are not comfortable going out on the ice, don’t let your pets venture out either.

mo.daniels@lakeannavirginia.org

Chair, Safety & Emergency Services Committee

By Bill Hariu – February 2026

Everyone loves spending time out on the boat at the lake. But nobody loves being stuck on the side of the road with a blown-out trailer tire on the way to the lake. Just as you maintain your vehicle and boat, checking and maintaining your boat trailer tires is essential.

Ensuring your trailer has the right tires before you hit the water with your boat is essential. This guide explains how to make an informed tire choice Your boat deserves the best, starting with the right trailer tires.

When to Buy Boat Trailer Tires

Unless you’re buying a brand new boat and trailer off the dealer lot, you will likely be in the market for some new boat trailer tires. If you don’t know how old the boat trailer tires are, you can check the DOT code on the side of the tire. 

What Is the Tire Date Code?

The tire date code is a four-digit number found on the sidewall of a tire, immediately following the letters “DOT”. It reveals the week and year your tire was manufactured.

• The first two digits indicate the week of the year (01 to 52).
• The last two digits show the year (e.g., “2519” means the 25th week of 2019).

Knowing how to read this code is essential for tire safety, since age can affect performance, even if the tread still looks fine.

Now that you know how old your boat trailer tires are, you must evaluate their condition.

An easy way to check if you need new tires is by the tread depth. To do this, you can use the Lincoln penny trick. All you do is set the penny, with the head facing down, into one of the grooves in the tire tread. It’s best to pick a couple of spots on the tire. If you can see the top of Abe’s head with the coin in position, it’s time to start looking for new tires.

The other thing to check for is cracks in the tire rubber. Boat trailers usually sit unused for long periods. The tread isn’t wearing out when the trailer is parked, but the rubber degrades due to exposure to UV rays and freezing temperatures.

The rubber dries out, and cracks start to appear. These usually occur in the tire’s bead area close to the rim, but you may also see small cracks between the tread blocks or in the tire grooves. Even some discoloration is usually no cause for concern. Deeper cracks warrant closer inspection by a tire expert.

Valve Stem

Often overlooked, the valve stem may be the cause of continued low psi. Press your finger against one side of the stem and listen for any loss of air.

Can you use regular car tires on a boat trailer?

Using regular passenger car tires on a boat trailer is not advisable. Car tires are not designed to handle the specific requirements of boat trailer towing, which include increased load capacity and resistance to water exposure. Boat trailer tires, marked as “ST” (Special Trailer), are engineered to withstand the challenges of marine environments and ensure safe towing, making them the best choice for your boat trailer.

Five Key Steps for Choosing the Right Boat Trailer Tires

1.   Know Your Boat Trailer’s Weight: Start by determining the weight of your boat and trailer when fully loaded. This information is crucial in selecting tires with the appropriate load-carrying capacity.

2.   Check the Tire Size: Refer to your trailer’s owner’s manual or inspect the existing tires for their size. Ensure you choose tires that match the rim size and meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

3.   Choose Special Trailer (ST) Tires: opt for ST tires explicitly designed for trailers. These tires are constructed to handle heavy loads, resist heat buildup, and provide improved water resistance, making them ideal for marine environments.

4.   Consider the Tread Pattern: Select a tread pattern that suits your towing needs. If you frequently launch your boat on slippery ramps, use tires with a tread design that offers excellent traction on wet surfaces.

5.   Regular Maintenance: Once you’ve chosen the right tires, don’t forget to maintain them properly. Check tire pressure regularly, inspect for signs of wear or damage, and keep them properly inflated to ensure safe towing.

By following these steps, you can make an informed choice when selecting boat trailer tires, ensuring that your trailer is equipped for safe and smooth boating adventures on the water.

What To Buy If You Need New Boat Trailer Tires

Dedicated trailer tires are marked as ST. This will be kept on the tire’s sidewall, along with the size of the tire. The tire may also say, “Trailer use only.” ST tires have stronger sidewalls that allow them to carry a heavier load than standard Passenger car tires or Light Truck tires. There are two kinds of ST tires: bias-ply and radial. Which type of tire you buy will depend on what comes on the trailer, how you use your trailer, and your budget.

In short, bias-ply trailer tires are cheaper and recommended for infrequent short-haul applications, including off-road or heavy loading. If you plan long highway driving trips, consider replacing those bias-ply tires with radial tires. Radial trailer tires are made to run cooler for longer hauls and a longer tread life. Never replace radial tires with bias-ply tires without consulting the trailer manufacturer or a tire professional.

Load Range

Now that you know what kind of tire to buy, you must consider the tire’s size and load capacity. The load range on trailers is classified as B, C, D, or E. B is the lightest classification of load capacity, and  E carries the heaviest load capacity.

Key Takeaways  

• Check the Sidewall: Always read the specific load rating stamped on your tire, as capacities vary slightly by brand

• Pressure is Everything: Reduced PSI lowers load capacity. A 20% drop in PSI can reduce load capacity by 12%.
• Tandem Axles: If you have tandem axles, calculate for a 12% to 20% load reduction, as tires may not share weight perfectly.
• Safety Margin: Ensure your total tire capacity (combined) exceeds the total GVWR (Boat + Motor + Fuel + Trailer + everything you place in your boat) by at least 10-15%. 

Common boat tires are Load Range C (6-ply, ~1,500–1,800 lbs) or D (8-ply, ~2,000+ lbs). Crucially, match the tire’s max PSI (e.g., 50-90 PSI) to its rated 

Proper Use and Care for Your Boat Trailer Tires

Once you have the perfect set of boat trailer tires, keeping a few things in mind is essential. Even though many of us want to reach our destination as fast as possible, boat trailer tires are made not to exceed speeds of 65 mph (100 km/h). Doing so for long periods could lead to tire failure.

 If you are going to be traveling on high-speed highways, you certainly don’t want the weight maxed out.   Avoid loading up the boat with extra weight during transport. Moving heavy cargo from the boat  to the back of the tow vehicle allows your trailer tires to withstand slightly higher speeds for extended periods.

It is also necessary to take proper care of your boat trailer tires during periods of nonuse by protecting them from UV light. There are unique wheel covers. However, a standard tarp or coverage in the garage is equally effective.

The final thing to remember is to rotate and balance your boat trailer tires as you do on your car or truck. Even turning your tires side to side on a single-axle trailer will help even out irregular treadwear and extend the tire’s life.

On a double axle, the standard X rotation is in order occasionally, particularly if you notice that irregular wear patterns are developing in the tread. 

Outside Temperatures:

• Every 10-degree decrease in air temperature leads to 1 psi of air loss. If you’re traveling somewhere that the morning temperature varies greatly from the afternoon temperature, check your air pressure first thing in the morning and again as the temperature increases.

Tires aren't exciting, until something goes wrong. Then, tires become the topic of the day.  In conclusion, take proper precautions and take care of your boat trailer tires.

bill.hariu@lakeannavirginia.org

By Mark DeBord – November 2025

This is  taken largely from an article by Al Bennett that was first published in October 2018 and reprinted in 2023.  It is a seasonal reminder that blowing leaves into the Lake is not a good practice.  As homeowners, it is difficult for us to control the amount of nutrients that enter our lake from upstream sources; however, as residents we can control what enters the lake from our respective properties.

Fall is a beautiful time at Lake Anna. The changing colors create spectacular viewing on the water. But these colorful leaves present a problem. It’s completely natural and inevitable that some falling leaves will end up in the lake. However, we should do our best to not  add to that natural process.

Blowing leaves into the lake is not a good idea. Leaves blown into the lake rarely settle at the shoreline of origin.  They are carried by wind and current to other locations before they reach bottom.  In coves, it is usually the few lots at the back of the cove that receive the leaf debris.  They are unsightly and over time, sedimentation buildup will cause these owners to lose water depth and will leave them with a muck-bottom.

Decaying leaves release nutrients, primarily carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous.  These nutrients are great for soil, but excess nutrients are a pollutant to lakes like ours.  These nutrients, especially phosphorous, are a fertilizer for hydrilla and algae, promoting their growth.  As hydrilla growth spreads, herbicides and/or carp are then needed to control its growth. 

Similarly, excessive nutrient levels can contribute to low dissolved oxygen levels by causing abundant growths of phytoplankton (microscopic plants and algae) called blooms. Living phytoplankton may deplete oxygen levels during the night and as the phytoplankton die, decomposition of the organic material by bacteria consumes oxygen. Depleted oxygen levels is harmful to the fish population.

Let’s all be good neighbors and good stewards of our lake’s ecosystem by not blowing leaves into the lake.  Instead, please consider collecting and finely mulching your leaves. You can spread them across your yard so that their nutrients can be returned to your soil or use them as mulch around your plants, providing additional protection against hard freezes this winter.

mark.debord@lakeannavirginia.org

By  Gary Cochard – November 2025

By the time you read this article, you will have noticed that the hundreds of hummingbirds (hummers) that visit Lake Anna each summer have long since departed for warmer climes.  Hummers are a family of small, vibrant birds native to the Americas, with unique flying abilities and extremely high metabolisms.  They are the smallest of all birds, and their high-energy lifestyle requires constant feeding and unique adaptations for survival. They are amazing little creatures. The smallest “Bee Hummingbird” of Cuba, is only about 2 inches long and weighs less than a dime. And the largest hummingbird, called the “Giant Hummingbird”, is between 8 and 9 inches long weighing less than an ounce.

Hummers are the only bird that can hover and fly backwards. This is possible as their shoulder joints allow their wings to rotate 180 degrees.  Their wings beat at remarkable speeds from 12 to 80 times per second.  Their tongues are grooved and split at the tip, with tiny hairs that help them lap up nectar by flicking their tongue in and out up to 13 times per second.

Hummingbirds have the highest metabolism of any warm-blooded animal, needed to support their active flight.   Each day, they can consume up to double their body weight in food.  To my surprise, a primary food source of hummingbirds is small insects and spiders, needed to get the protein and nutrients they need. Nectar, of course, is also a favorite food source providing the much-needed energy to sustain their busy lifestyle. To conserve energy during the night or when food sources are scare, hummers will enter a state of deep, hibernation-like sleep called torpor, dramatically slowing their heart rate and metabolism. Their heart rate can drop from 1200 beats per minute to as low as 50 beats per minute, and their body temp will drop from 104 degrees to near 50 degrees.  They go into torpor for several hours each night and must do so or they would starve to death.  They are very vulnerable to predators during torpor.  Cats, snakes, hawks, jays, praying mantises, and frogs head up a list of many predators. The life expectancy of most hummingbirds is only 3 to 5 years, although the actual lifespan varies by species and individual factors.  Surviving the first year is the biggest challenge.

When it comes to reproducing and nesting the male takes a back seat once the mating ritual is complete. Males do not participate in nesting or raising their young.  The female alone builds the nest, incubates the eggs, and feeds the chicks.   A clutch of two eggs, each about the size of a jellybean, is the normal number.  The nest, made from moss, plant fibers and lichen and bound together with spider silk, is about the size of a walnut.  The spider silk allows the nest to be flexible and expand as the chicks grow.  Once they’ve left the nest and learned to feed on their own, it’s soon time to migrate.  The young hummingbirds must navigate their first long journey south strictly on instinct, as hummers are solo migrators, traveling alone, not in flocks or groups.  Shortly before migrating, they will increase their body weight by 25-40% storing fat for the long, energy-intensive journey.

But come spring, most of these little creatures will make the long journey north returning to their breeding ground here at Lake Anna.  Often, they will take up residence at/near the same location used in the previous year.

There is much more to learn about these little creatures, but I hope I’ve provided you with a few facts you may not have known.  Thanks for reading!

gary.cochard@lakeannavirginia.org

By Bill Hariu – November 2025

Why Winterize?

As I write these suggestions, I know many of you are experienced boaters and PWC owners who have already winterized and have your own process and / or through a qualified professional mechanic. This article is a gentle reminder of winterizing recommendations.

Proper winter maintenance in Virginia is essential to protect boat / PWC engines and systems from freeze damage. Key recommended steps include engine preservation, protecting plumbing, and securing the vessel for offseason storage. The answer boils down to water. Fresh water expands by about 9% in volume when it freezes and can push outward with tens of thousands of pounds per square inch of pressure. It’s no surprise, then, that around three-quarters of boat / PWC freeze insurance claims involve cracks in the engine block or exhaust manifolds because water remained in the cooling system or engine during a hard freeze.

Other damaged boating or PWC components may include fiberglass, hoses, plumbing and even refrigeration and don't forget the air-conditioning system if your boat has one.

What To Winterize:

In a nutshell, generally, anything that uses water for cooling or carries water for use on board needs to be winterized. Proper winterization means removing all water from the boat or PWC engines and systems and/or replacing it with the correct type of approved NONTOXIC antifreeze. How this is done and how long it takes varies by boat / PWC model and type of systems you have. For any plumbing systems aboard (e.g. fresh- and raw-water hose downs, water heaters, freshwater tanks, heads, includes holding tanks, pumps, shower sumps, sinks, and even seacocks) if recommended you may need to replace the water with an approved NONTOXIC antifreeze per your vessels manufacturing / specific system guidelines.

Simply draining the system isn’t enough because it’s nearly impossible to remove all water. Every boat and PWC model is different, so follow all manufacturer recommendations for winterizing your specific engine and your specific systems aboard.

What other Systems Need to Be Addressed?

Fall is also the perfect time to do your annual oil changes and transmission fluid, on your engines per manufacturing guidelines.  Make sure your to-do list includes if recommended for your specific model:

•    Any oil change and cylinder fogging for engines and generators.

•   Lower-unit gear-lube change for outboards or sterndrives.

•   Topping off the fuel tank, adding stabilizer or biocides as needed.

•   Inspection of anodes and running gear.

•   Washing the exterior of the boat to remove salt and dirt and getting the cockpit or other exterior drains cleared.

•   Make sure batteries are fully charged, or better yet, remove them where they can be stored indoors and given a booster charge from time to time to keep them topped up.

What's Left to Do other recommendations?

Your boating gear, and all the stuff a boat tends to accumulate over the season, will be more likely to stay clean, dry, and mildew free if you take it home and store it there. Additionally, gear that's not on the boat is gear that's not there to be stolen during those quiet months when the boatyard is largely empty or your boat is at home in the yard or boathouse

 Consider:

•   Removing bracket-mounted electronics, even if they're in the cabin or pilothouse.

•   Taking big-ticket items, like the dinghy, outboard, or kicker off the boat. Same goes for paddle boards and large water toys you might store aboard.

•   Removing rods, reels, and tackle, which are favorite targets for thieves.

•   Taking home spare clothes, cushions, canvas awnings, bedding, life jackets, and anything else likely to mildew.

•   Wash it all and make sure it's all salt-free and dry before storing. Put a lubricant on snaps and zippers, so they don't seize up over the storage season.

•   Adding a GPS tracker to your trailer able boat for remote monitoring. For as little as $99, it can keep an electronic eye on your boat when you can't.

•   Block your trailer up off the ground and remove the tires. This will not only deter thieves but also make trailer tires last longer.

How you answer these questions will dictate how much time, energy, and money you spend, and many of us gladly trade the latter for more of the former. Having a plan and preparing your boat well will mean getting back on the water sooner come spring.

Who Should Do the Work?

If you know what tasks need to be done for your boat or PWC and you’re comfortable doing them, there’s no reason you can’t winterize your boat yourself.

However, if there’s any question about what needs to be done or if you have an insurance endorsement for ice and freeze damage, you’ll need to hire a qualified marine professional.

bill.hariu@lakeannavirginia.org

By Sue Biondi – November 2025

The third annual Lake Anna Civic Association (LACA) golf tournament was held on Monday, August 25, 2025 at Cutalong at Lake Anna golf course.  This was the first tournament held since the grand opening of Cooper’s Clubhouse.  There were 84 players, including Cutalong members and guests.

Prior to the 11:00 shotgun start, LACA President Greg Baker and other board members welcomed everyone and were busy selling raffle tickets and mulligans, which give players an extra stroke without penalty.  Players gathered behind the newly opened clubhouse, where they got into their carts and prepared to take off onto the course.  But prior to leaving, Greg got the raffle drawings underway and distributed many fabulous prizes.

Cutalong donated a round of golf and Greg donated three rounds of golf at Kinloch, located in the Richmond area.  Also, three one-night stays at the Boardwalk Hotel at Lake Anna were donated by Cutalong.  In addition, there were gift certificates donated from local restaurants including The Taphouse, Asian Cafe and Vito’s Italian Restaurant.  There were other cash prizes and dozens of golf balls, together with lots of golf-related items making for a memorable experience.

There were many hole sponsors with signs showing supportive community businesses.  The signs were made by Midtown Printing and Design, Rhonda Guill, owner.  The Louisa County Department of Tourism offered LACA a $5,000 grant in support of the tournament.  A fabulous box lunch was prepared by chefs at Coopers, which included a sandwich, homemade chips and a freshly baked cookie.  There was plenty of beer and soft drinks available for players.

Winners included first, second and third places and closest to the pin on all four par three holes.  All proceeds from the event went directly into the LACA Water Quality budget, to be used exclusively for the Kick the HAB (Harmful Algae Bloom) program.  The program’s goal is to remediate and mitigate algae blooms throughout the lake to keep the water clean, safe and beautiful.

LACA would like to thank Cutalong, all participants, sponsors and donors.  In addition to the businesses already mentioned, sponsors included Marshall’s Roofing, Superior Landscaping, JO Contractors, Lake Anna Golf Carts, Edward Jones Financial, the Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church Men’s Group, Realtor Tiffany Hazelwood, the Belmont Ruritans, Evergreen Irrigation and Landscaping, Realtor Kristie Cooke, Merrill Lynch, Patios Plus, Chiles, the Mineral United Methodist Church, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, K & M Rentals, Realtor Ashley Hoffman, the Richmond SPCA, Smile Lake Anna, Callie Opie’s Orchard, Realtor Liz Wilson and April Landscaping.

LACA is very thankful for these businesses’ support and looks forward to additional businesses joining in the effort next year.  A special thank you to co-organizer Lara Weatherholtz, co-chair of the LACA Marketing Committee, who spent endless hours of creativity making signs and posters.  A group effort made this a very successful day.  Proceeds from the event totaled more than $21,000.  We hope to see many more participants next year and hope to continue supporting the efforts of the Water Quality team and help reach their goal of mitigating and perhaps eradicating harmful algae on Lake Anna.

sue.biondi@lakeannavirginia.org