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City Park Lake Has Major Algae Problem

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Jun 29, 2008 7:01 pm US/Mountain

City Park Lake Has Major Algae Problem

Reporting
Michelle Griego
DENVER (CBS4) ― City Park has had its share of problems ... from antiquated sprinkler systems to avian botulism … but now its dealing with algae.

The green, slimy organism has seemed to take over Ferril Lake at the popular park.

"We always have algae in our lakes," said Helen Kuykendall, a City Park administrator with Parks and Recreation. "We just don't normally have this much."

Boats normally on the water by now will be docked for awhile.

"We were really looking forward to the new boats we have ready to go out on the lake and we haven't been running those," Kuykendall said.

The hot temperatures in April and May combined with recycled water that's high in nutrients seem to be the cause.

"We think that's what created this ideal condition for the algae to bloom," Kuykendall said.

Parks and Recreation is treating the algae once a week with a product called Cutrine.

"We can only apply it in small dosages so it doesn't affect wildlife or the natural ecology of the lake," Kuykendall said.

The treatments aren't working fast enough for nearby residents

"I've been in this park all my life and it's never ever been this bad," said Tom Morris, a nearby resident.

He believes the city's interest in maintaining parks has dwindled and more money is needed.

"They're underfunded, they've been underfunded for years and it's the worst it's ever been," Morris said.

Kuykendall says the funding comes from sales tax so when the economy goes down ... they suffer as well.

"We're just as frustrated as the public is," Kuykendall said. "I'm telling you it makes me want to cry."

And from green problems to brown ones ... City Park's antiquated sprinkler system also needs some work.

"We've been gradually replacing that system with a new automated very water efficient system," Kuykendall said.

The park may have its problems but hope is still not lost

"We have always strived to make this park a jewel for Denver and for everybody," Kuykendall said.

Parks and Recreation hopes to have the algae problem under control in a couple of months, especially since thousands will be in town for the Democratic National Convention in August.

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