Algae infestation prompts emergency response at Reflecting Pool.

On Tuesday, maintenance teams injected hydrogen peroxide into the freshly painted Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in response to an emerging algae issue, just days following its renovation under President Donald Trump's initiative to restore iconic DC landmarks.

Workers from the National Park Service were observed pouring jugs containing 12% hydrogen peroxide into the Reflecting Pool, whose murky waters had turned a vibrant shade of green on the National Mall near iconic landmarks.

The Interior Department has deployed advanced nanobubble ozone technology to combat the algae infestation at Reflecting Pool. This high-tech solution targets not only algae but also E. coli and other pathogens, effectively eliminating contaminants from the pool. Hydrogen peroxide is being utilized as an alternative treatment method, considered gentler than chlorine commonly used in spas and natural pools.

Stony Brook University's Professor Christopher Gobler, with over three decades of experience studying harmful algal blooms, notes that hydrogen peroxide can temporarily alleviate algae issues without posing significant health risks to the pool's regular waterfowl visitors.

According to Gobler, aquatic life is especially vulnerable when completely submerged, as this scenario can lead to oxygen depletion with fatal consequences for fish.

The official cautioned that this solution may not be sustainable.

Gobler notes that an algae resurgence is inevitable, and any temporary solutions may eventually face challenges from recurring growth.

As part of a major renovation, the Reflecting Pool's water levels were replenished on June 5, following a comprehensive drainage, cleaning, and resurfacing process overseen by Trump. Meanwhile, the pool's base received a fresh coat of paint in a vibrant hue dubbed "American flag blue" by its patron.