Algal Bloom Control Pilot Project at Big Eleven Lake
Published on March 30, 2023
The Unified Government Parks & Recreation Department (UG) along with Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), and US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have partnered to complete an "Algal Bloom Control Project" at Big Eleven Lake (11th and State Avenue, KCK, KS).
In mid-March, Lake goers at Big Eleven began to see various crews from the UG Parks and Recreation Department, as well as KDHE and USACE kick-off an Algal Bloom Control Project. The objective of this pilot program is to evaluate whether applying a peroxide-based algaecide in early springtime can delay the onset and/ or diminish severity of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in Big Eleven Lake. This project will be in effect throughout the year.
"Urban lakes are highly valued by local residents and important part of cities ecosystems as they play a major role in providing environmental, social and economic services," said Parks and Recreation Director, Angel Ferrara. "This is an important partnership project with KDHE to explore potential solutions to positively influence water quality and preserve the integrity of our urban lake."
What are Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)?
Blue-green algae (aka cyanobacteria) are bacteria that can photosynthesize like plants. There are many different species, and in small numbers, they are a normal part of healthy lake ecosystems. However, in the presence of sunlight, still, clear water, and nutrients, cyanobacteria can quickly create an overgrowth or "bloom" that is not just an unsightly nuisance, but a significant health risk- a Harmful Algal Bloom. This risk can produce toxins that can harm the liver, nervous system, respiratory system, and skin.
Why Big Eleven Lake?
Big Eleven Lake is an historically important lake in Kansas City, Kansas, that experiences HABs almost every year. This lake is surrounded by trees, park space, picnic tables and an amphitheater, and provides green space for Kansas City, KS residents. The lake's history has been tracked by the UG and KDHE for many years for having a historical frequency of HABs. Because of this history, its small size, and proximity to KDHE and other offices, Big Eleven Lake is an ideal place to refine the treatment method and evaluate its effects.
According to KDHE, the hope is that controlling HABs in Big Eleven will enhance the lake's appeal as part of the UG's efforts towards revitalization of the neighborhood.
What Can Lake Goers Expect to See at the Lake During the Project?
Crews from USACE will install a bright orange curtain at the lake, which will be anchored on shore and stretched across the water for peroxide to be applied to the lake. During this treatment time foot traffic to the park/ lake will be restricted. Although the chemical solution is harmless to humans once it is in the water, it is considered very strong in its dry, granular form.
Throughout the project small crews from KDHE will be working in inflatable paddle boats to collect water and sediment samples from across the lake.
Informational yard signs will be placed around the lake and neighborhood to inform residents of the project and progress. (Example yard sign listed below)
Algal-Bloom-Control-Project-Yard-Sign-March-2023.pdf(PDF, 125KB)
Stay tuned for additional information to be shared as the project progresses.