A viral photo of a deceased duck in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is raising concerns about the landmark’s $14 million renovation. The photo, which has been viewed over 620,000 times as of Sunday on X, highlights issues with water quality, chemical treatments, and possible vandalism.
Reflecting Pool Controversy
The controversy stems from the pool’s recent overhaul. The project featured a paint job referred to as ‘American Flag Blue’ to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary. However, algae blooms turned the water green quickly after completion, and parts of the coating peeled off into floating fragments. Maintenance teams have used hydrogen peroxide to battle the algae growth.
Criticism is coming from visitors, environmentalists, and political figures, questioning the renovation’s efficacy. Photographs over the weekend showed crews working to clean the pool.
Officials offer varying explanations for the problems. Environmental factors like heat and stagnant water are noted, while former President Donald Trump claimed the issues result from vandalism, without providing proof.
Trump stated on Truth Social, ‘Many additional people have been arrested having to do with the disgraceful Vandalism of our beautiful Reflecting Pool.’ He promised prompt repair efforts.
In a Sunday X post, Emma Nicholson from CBS News reported ’14 police reports have been filed’ regarding alleged vandalism. She noted 10 arrests and federal citations.
The Dead Duck and Environmental Concerns
Social media shares reveal at least one dead duck in the pool, seen shortly after chemical treatments began. Images have shown ducks in the pool, but there’s no verification directly linking the treatments to the duck’s death. Experts caution on hydrogen peroxide’s effects, noting risks only at high concentrations.
Algae Impact on the Reflecting Pool
Without a clear cause of the duck’s death, online debate intensifies. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, thrive in sunlight and stagnant water. They’re natural but can release toxins during rapid blooms.
Experts point out the difficulty in managing water quality in open-air monuments. John Wilson Jr., a water systems specialist, stated fresh stagnant water inevitably turns green.
Engineer Tyler Dailey explained reflecting pools lack filtration systems typical of swimming pools, complicating algae control.