Just over a week after its renovation and repainting, the famous reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington is already facing an unexpected problem: a major proliferation of algae has forced authorities to intervene urgently.
On Tuesday, National Park Service crews were seen pouring hydrogen peroxide into the pool waters in an attempt to eliminate algae that had given the water a greenish tint visible to the naked eye.
The basin, which connects the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument on the National Mall, had just undergone renovation work as part of a program to modernize the iconic monuments of the American capital.
According to Reuters, the operation is part of an initiative supported by the US president. Donald Trump as the 250th anniversary of United States independence approached. The renovation included, among other things, a repainting of the pool.
Workers were seen pouring containers labeled "12% hydrogen peroxide" into the water to limit algae growth. This substance is sometimes used to treat bodies of water affected by excessive plant blooms.
The reflecting pool, inaugurated nearly a century ago, is one of Washington's most visited and photographed sites. It has served as the backdrop for numerous historical events, including the famous "I Have a Dream" speech delivered by Martin Luther King Jr. in 1963.
Authorities have not specified how long the treatment will take or whether the algae bloom is related to the recent work. Maintenance crews are continuing their efforts to quickly restore the monument's appearance before next year's planned celebrations.
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