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How the Reflecting Pool Turned Green: Missing ‘Bubblers’ and a Rush Job
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Nanobubblers, devices used to prevent algae blooms in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, were removed on June 12 ahead of a Trump administration event promoting President Trump’s UFC birthday celebration at the White House.
- The removal was requested by the National Park Service, which awarded a $1.7 million no-bid contract to Greenwater Services to install the nanobubblers, though no official reason was provided for their removal.
- The nanobubblers were considered visually unappealing due to their black fencing and large generators, prompting their removal for the event despite their role in maintaining water clarity.
- By the day after the event, the Reflecting Pool’s water turned green with algae, leading officials to reinstall the nanobubblers to restore water quality.
- Sources familiar with the decision spoke anonymously, fearing retaliation from the administration, highlighting concerns about the motivations behind the removal.
