The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. turned green this week due to algae, right after its renovation which was ordered by President Donald Trump. Trump had described the pool’s new color as ‘American Flag Blue.’ This pool, stretching from the Lincoln Memorial to the World War II Memorial near the White House, has long been a backdrop for significant events and everyday activities in the nation’s capital.
What Happened to the Reflecting Pool?
Recent images show algae spreading across the pool just days after it was refilled, raising concerns about whether the redesign changed conditions that could promote algae growth. Algae issues have affected the site since it opened over a century ago. Trump aimed to permanently solve these issues in recent months.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Ozone Used to Control Algae
On Tuesday, the National Park Service and contractors used hydrogen peroxide and ozone nanobubbles to manage the algae. These methods were previously employed prior to Trump’s renovation. Hydrogen peroxide, an effective oxidizing agent, helps break down algae and other organic contaminants.
A Historical Overview of the Reflecting Pool
1963: March on Washington
The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom was a pivotal event advocating for civil and economic rights for Black Americans. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech here.
1968: Poor People’s Campaign
King continued his advocacy through the Poor People’s Campaign, aimed at securing economic and human rights for the poor. This culminated in rallies and encampments alongside the pool.
1989: Mobilize for Women’s Lives Rally
A large abortion-rights demonstration organized by the National Organization for Women occurred near the pool, drawing around 350,000 participants.
1993: Call for Reunion
A star-studded event organized by Quincy Jones celebrated President Bill Clinton’s inauguration, featuring performers like Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin.
1999: Welcoming the New Millennium
Fireworks were launched from the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument on New Year’s Day, 2000.
2007: Sunsets and Storms
Strong winds in April created choppy waves, making the pool appear gray. In November, it reflected a sunny sky.
2009: President Barack Obama’s Inauguration
The pool extended the National Mall for Barack Obama’s inauguration with diverse performances and an appearance by the President-elect.
2010: Green Tint
An August 2010 photograph showed the pool with a green tint under a cloudy sky.
2012: Refurbishment
Under Obama, the pool received a $30 million refurbishment, adding new circulation and filtration systems. Algae appeared shortly after its reopening.
2013: 50 Years from MLK Speech
Reverend Al Sharpton and Martin Luther King III led a commemorative march and rally to mark 50 years since King’s speech.
2015: Reflections of Blue Skies
Three years post-refurbishment, the pool effectively reflected both the Lincoln Memorial and the blue sky.
2020: March for Justice
Sharpton and the National Action Network held a march against police brutality, aligning with the anniversary of the March on Washington.
2021: Commemorating 9/11
The pool appeared gray-green during the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Technical Details of the Pool
The pool holds roughly 6.5 million gallons of water. It measures 18 inches deep near its edges and 30 inches at its center. During Obama’s 2012 refurbishment, a new system was installed that draws water from the nearby Tidal Basin. Trump criticized this refurbishment as substandard.
Trump’s Renovation Efforts
Trump ordered the pool’s renovation as part of a larger project to renew the National Mall ahead of the U.S. 250th anniversary. The pool received a dark blue coating to improve its look and seal leaks. The refurbishment involved draining the pool for repairs and resealing it with the darker finish. The rapid schedule from draining to refilling left little time for the water systems to stabilize, making the water quality more susceptible to rapid changes.