October 11, 2024| Community, Environment
By: Kyle Richter and Andrew Dollberg
As part of a continued commitment to water quality improvement, an alum treatment will be completed on Lake Hopatcong during the week of October 21, weather permitting. This treatment is part of ongoing efforts to reduce harmful algal blooms (HABs) and enhance the lake’s overall health.
Alum (aluminum sulfate) is a nontoxic substance commonly used to clarify drinking water. It is also a widely used method for reducing phosphorus levels in lakes. Phosphorus, often stemming from runoff and pollutants, is a key nutrient that fuels the growth of algae. When applied, alum binds with the phosphorus in the water, causing it to settle to the lake bottom, where it becomes unavailable for algal blooms. This process can significantly reduce the likelihood of HABs, which can pose risks to both the ecosystem and public health.
Lake Hopatcong has experienced several significant algal blooms over recent years, which have prompted temporary closures of swimming areas during peak summer months and can endanger aquatic life, pets, and humans. By mitigating the excess phosphorus in the water, we hope to reduce the frequency and duration of HABs on Lake Hopatcong.
The alum treatment will be applied using specialized barges over several days, depending on weather conditions. During this period, lake users may see boats, barges, and other equipment in the main lake area (north of Bertrand Island up to Byram Cove). However, there should be minimal disruption to regular activities on the water. We ask that you maintain a safe distance from the equipment to allow the crews to work efficiently. The treatment is environmentally safe, and no swimming or boating restrictions are anticipated.
The project is funded by a Water Quality Restoration and Federal 319(h) grant awarded to the Lake Hopatcong Commission by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). SOLitude Lake Management will implement this project, following a plan developed by Princeton Hydro.
This treatment is just one part of a broader effort to protect Lake Hopatcong’s water quality. The Lake Hopatcong Foundation along with the Lake Hopatcong Commission have been working diligently with NJDEP, all four lake municipalities, Morris and Sussex Counties, and other partners to address environmental challenges and promote a cleaner and safer environment for residents, visitors, and wildlife alike.
Photo courtesy of SOLitude Lake Management
