2 New Barges To Treat Algae, Toxins At Lake Elsinore's Historic Lake

LAKE ELSINORE, CA — Through a new type of water treatment technology, officials in Lake Elsinore have been injecting oxygen into the city's historic lake to treat the water and improve the local ecosystem.

In February, Lake Elsinore installed its first Nanobubble Barge, built and operated by Moleaer Inc. The barge injects "nanobubbles" into the lake, which helps remove contaminants like algae toxins, pathogens and other harmful material.

After seeing improvements to the water quality, the City Council approved the purchase of two more barges, officials announced.

The lake has been enjoyed recreationally for more than 100 years. In the 1920s, residents flocked to the lake to enjoy boat races. It was also used as a training ground for Olympic swim teams. Now, the city is working to restore and preserve the lake to ensure that it is safe to use for all.

"Just as oxygen is vital to human health, it is crucial for the health of our lake," said Lake Elsinore Mayor Steve Manos. "By increasing the oxygen levels, we're enabling our beloved lake to begin healing itself."

The second and third barges are currently being installed — one at Launch Point and the other at Elm Grove Beach. Once all three barges are fully operational, they will pump more than 5,500 pounds of oxygen into the lake every day.

These barges are equipped with nanobubble technology that is expected to enhance the oxygen delivery to the lake. The natural mixing of the lake ensures that the benefits of the nanobubbles spread throughout the lake to improve water quality and the natural ecosystem.

"These efforts represent a significant step forward in our commitment to preserving and revitalizing Lake Elsinore," Manos said.

In addition to injecting oxygen, the city has ushered in a new maintenance and preventative program for the lake which includes the use of a "safe algaecide," which targets dangerous algae in the lake. The city is also working to reduce high levels of phosphorus, which has been particularly cumbersome as it serves as food for nuisance algae.

"This year we recorded the highest level of water clarity at 16 feet of visibility," Manos said. "During the hot summer months, we managed to minimize harmful algae blooms."

The mayor said since July 4, the lake has been improving every week.

"This proactive approach, coupled with our ongoing commitment to the lake well-being demonstrates our dedication to maintaining and improving this vital resource," Manos said.