Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Turns Green Following Renovation

The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool has developed a green hue, attributed to algae blooms following a recent renovation that included repainting its bottom. Experts suggest that the pool's shallow, stagnant water and strong sunlight create ideal conditions for algae growth, a situation exacerbated by the renovation process.

Steve Goodale, a swimming pool specialist, explained that the phenomenon, known as 'New Pond Syndrome,' often occurs when a natural body of water is disturbed. Rosalina Stancheva Christova, an aquatic ecology professor, confirmed that the algae present in the pool is non-toxic and belongs to the genus Desmodesmus, which thrives in the current conditions. She noted that the renovations may have disrupted the nutrient balance, accelerating the algae's growth.

The Trump administration has implemented various strategies to combat the algae, including the use of hydrogen peroxide, which is considered less harmful than chlorine, and a nanobubble ozone technology designed to neutralize algae and pathogens. Despite these efforts, as of Thursday morning, much of the pool remained green, prompting ongoing maintenance work.

Goodale remarked on the complexity of treating the reflecting pool, likening it to managing a manmade shallow lake rather than a typical swimming pool. He emphasized that addressing the algae issue requires a comprehensive approach, including proper management of the water system's underlying filtration problems.

Concerns have been raised about the potential for recurring algae blooms, especially given the favorable conditions for growth. Experts recommend regular monitoring of the water to ensure that harmful algae do not proliferate. A White House spokesperson indicated that the recent renovations aimed to address long-standing issues with the pool, although some underlying problems remain unresolved.