Phoslock treatment for phosphorus reduction

Our team recently assisted one of our clients in solving a pressing problem with their lake. The lake was exhibiting hypereurotrophic characteristics (frequent and severe nuisance algal blooms and low transparency). In particular, this lake has experienced repeated blooms of various forms cyanobacteria (aka Blue Green Algae) including Mycrosystis. This type of algae can produce toxins which can produce adverse effects in fish, waterfowl, pets, livestock and in certain cases humans. Water quality testing revealed that the lake had extremely high phosphorus levels, a typical cause of hypereurotrophic conditions. The accumulation of free reactive phosphorus in the water column and bottom sediments it not uncommon in older impoundments in urban watersheds.

To address the problem, we consulted SePro to determine an appropriate application of Phoslock, a phosphorus reducing product. In order to “reset the ecological clock” in the lake (in other words, to return the water body to a much lower phosphorus level), Phoslock was used to permanently bind free reactive phosphorus in the lake. This is a relatively new technology that has proven to be both safe and effective. Read more about how it works here. Follow-up water quality testing will be done within 30 days of the application. 

Here's a video of the application process:

And photos:

Turbidity: Seeing it clearly

One of these water samples is more turbid than the other!Scientifically speaking, turbidity is the measure of the degree to which water loses transparency due to the presence of suspended particulates. The higher the turbidity level, the more opaque (or murky) the water appears to be. Materials that cause high turbidity include clay, silt, algae and phytoplankton. Turbidity in urban lakes and ponds tends to increase following periods of heavy rainfall, often due to runoff from within the watershed. High turbidity can also be caused by algae growth and die-off.

Turbidity & water quality

A high turbidity level in a lake is sometimes merely an aesthetic issue. Water clarity naturally varies throughout the year as cycles of vegetation growth and decomposition occur. Some moderate turbidity can actually be desirable, as phytoplankton serves as a food source for microscopic animals and some fish, and improves water quality by producing dissolved oxygen. However, persistently high turbidity levels can cause problems and the causes should be investigated.

Controlling turbidity

The best method for reducing turbidity levels, when indicated, depends on the cause of the elevated turbidity.  Green or brownish-green water with poor clarity is usually caused by exacerbated algae and phytoplankton growth, a result of excessive nutrient build-up. An algal "bloom" can cause a soupy look and bright green color. Muddy brown or reddish-brown water can indicate sediment influx from erosion and runoff; dredging may be warranted, along with an identification of the source to reduce future build-up.

A sudden, drastic change in water color or clarity (unless the change in clarity is directly attributable to a storm event) and/or a foul odor warrants a call to a professional.

Camp Pond Gets Thumbs Up!

Each summer, 800+ kids in the Metro Atlanta area attend summer camp at High Meadows School in Roswell, Ga. The camp focuses on self improvement, personal responsibility, and environmental respect. Aquascape Environmental supports the camp mission, and we have a special connection with High Meadows - our own Evan Carpenter is an alumnus - so we were happy to help the camp directors achieve some aquatic resource related peace of mind by providing water quality testing services for Moss Pond, where High Meadows campers take canoeing classes and encounter wildlife. We were pleased to report that the testing results were good!