Waynesboro, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Mercury and the South River
Fish from the South River (with the exception of stocked trout) should not be eaten. Why?
Up until the 1950s, mercury was used in the manufacture of synthetic fibers in Waynesboro. In 1976, it was found that mercury chemically binds to fine soil particles and enters the aquatic food web. For every plant or invertebrate that absorbs mercury from the contaminated soil, the animals that feed on them in turn take on the mercury, which builds up in their system. This leads to more negative effects from mercury in birds, fish, and other long-lived animals.
Mercury affects the behavior of wildlife. A recent study shows that songbirds feeding near areas of the river contaminated with mercury have simpler songs than their counterparts living away from the river.
Proper management of riverbanks to slow erosion helps contain the mercury in the soil, thereby reducing its impact.
Erected by Dominion Energy; Virginia Museum of Natural History; Waynesboro Parks & Recreation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Industry & Commerce • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1976.
Location. 38° 3.946′ N,
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. It is also in the American South and specifically in the Upper South. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: William H. Harman Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); Ecology of the South River (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); River Crossings & Bridges (approx. 0.2 miles away); Waynesboro (approx. 0.2 miles away); a different marker also named Waynesboro (approx. 0.3 miles
Credits. This page was last revised on July 10, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 10, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 2 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 10, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
