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Peroxide battles algae in newly painted Reflecting Pool
17 Jun
Summary
- Hydrogen peroxide is being used to treat algae blooms in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
- The pool was recently repainted in a color Trump calls 'American flag blue'.
- Experts suggest peroxide is a common short-term algae fix but may not be a permanent solution.
Crews introduced hydrogen peroxide into the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Tuesday to address a recent algae bloom. This treatment follows the pool's repainting, which was part of a project to revamp Washington's monuments. The nearly century-old basin, stretching between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, had developed visibly green water.
The Interior Department stated that the pool is also undergoing treatment with nanobubble ozone technology to eliminate algae and contaminants. Hydrogen peroxide, described as a milder alternative to chlorine, is being used as a common, short-term measure. Experts believe this chemical is unlikely to harm the frequent waterfowl but cautioned that algae often rebound, suggesting it may not be a long-term fix.
The reflecting pool had been refilled starting June 5, after being drained, cleaned, and resurfaced. During the renovation, its bottom was repainted in a shade referred to as 'American flag blue' by President Trump.
