Algae Turns Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Green Post Refurbishment

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., recently turned green due to algae growth after a refurbishment ordered by President Donald Trump. Trump had envisioned the pool with a new color, described as ‘American Flag Blue.’ The pool stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the World War II Memorial near the White House and serves as a backdrop for historic events and daily life.

What Happened to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool?

Images from recent days have shown algae spreading across the pool’s surface, raising concerns about whether the redesign favored fast algae blooms. Algae issues have persisted since the pool’s opening over a century ago. Trump aimed to resolve these issues permanently.

Hydrogen Peroxide Used to Combat Algae

National Park Service teams and contractors applied chemicals and ozone nanobubbles to manage the algae. Hydrogen peroxide, known for its role in water treatment, helps break down algae and organic contaminants.

Historical Events at the Reflecting Pool

1963: The pool witnessed the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.

1968: The Poor People’s Campaign organized rallies and encampments by the pool, advocating for economic and human rights.

1989: The Mobilize for Women’s Lives Rally, focusing on abortion rights, gathered approximately 350,000 people.

1993: Quincy Jones organized a star-studded event for President Bill Clinton’s inauguration, featuring multiple performers.

1999: New Year’s Day 2000 saw fireworks launched from the pool and Washington Monument.

2007: Winds created choppy waves on April 16, and November skied reflected on the pool.

2009: President Barack Obama’s inauguration saw the pool host thousands and various performances.

2010: Photos from August showed the pool’s green tint under cloudy skies.

2012: Obama’s presidency led to a $30 million refurbishment, but algae emerged soon after refilling.

2013: The 50th anniversary of MLK’s speech included a commemorative march with leaders like Al Sharpton.

2015: The pool appeared clean and reflected blue skies, fulfilling its purpose.

2020: Families affected by police brutality marched for justice reform on the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington.

2021: On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, the pool showed a gray-green color.

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Capacity

The pool holds about 6.5 million gallons, with depths from 18 inches at the edges to 30 inches in the center. A circulation and filtration system, added during the 2012 refurbishment, draws water from the Tidal Basin. Trump critiqued this refurbishment as inadequate.

Trump’s Multimillion-Dollar Renovations

Trump’s renovations aimed to revamp the National Mall before the United States’ 250th anniversary. The pool’s century-old basin was resurfaced with dark blue for improved appearance and leak prevention. Repairs included a new coat meant to give the ‘American flag blue’ look.

The pool was drained to fix its infrastructure and resurfaced quickly to meet timelines. Rapid changes in water quality can occur during this compressed period before stabilization.