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Floating Wetlands Fight Algae: Lakewood's Success Story
25 Jul
Summary
- Lakewood's floating wetlands project for algal blooms shows success.
- Native plants on islands absorb nutrients, acting as living filters.
- Drought and heat challenge current solutions, requiring combined approaches.
Lakewood's four-year pilot project utilizing floating wetlands to combat harmful algal blooms has been deemed successful by city officials. Launched in 2022, the initiative involved installing artificial islands with native vegetation, designed to absorb excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. These plants function as living filters, with their roots absorbing pollutants and supporting beneficial microbes.
While the floating islands have improved water quality at Stonehouse Pond, this summer's conditions of drought, extreme heat, and low water levels have still allowed algae to proliferate. This highlights the challenge of climate change, as stagnant water conditions are exacerbated.
To address these ongoing issues, Lakewood has expanded its strategies. At Big Soda Lake, an annual spring treatment using EutroSORB G permanently binds phosphorus in the sediment, leading to clearer water.
The success of Lakewood's initial floating wetlands project has influenced other municipalities. Officials emphasize the need for continued investment in a combination of passive systems like floating wetlands and newer phosphorus treatments to protect Colorado's vital water bodies for recreation, drinking water, and wildlife.
