Elizabeth River (Virginia)

The Elizabeth River is a tidal estuary located in the Hampton Roads region of southeastern Virginia, United States. It is formed by the confluence of four major branches: the Eastern Branch, Southern Branch, Western Branch, and Lafayette River. These branches drain a watershed of approximately 240 square miles.

The river flows into Hampton Roads, a large natural harbor considered one of the finest in the world, which then empties into the Chesapeake Bay and ultimately the Atlantic Ocean. The Elizabeth River is a significant waterway for both commercial and military activities, serving as a major port and home to several U.S. Navy installations, including Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base.

Historically, the Elizabeth River has been important for shipbuilding, transportation, and commerce since the colonial era. Over time, heavy industrial activity and urban runoff led to significant pollution in the river. In recent decades, there have been extensive efforts to restore the Elizabeth River's water quality and habitats through initiatives involving government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local communities. These efforts have focused on reducing pollution, restoring wetlands, and enhancing biodiversity. The Elizabeth River Project is a leading organization dedicated to the river's restoration.