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Case Study for Customer Location CO97:
Reservoir or Lake Use:
This is a freshwater lake utilized primarily for recreational purposes (swimming, boating, and fishing),
and managed by a homeowners association with approximately 46 homeowners.
System Overview and Reservoir:
This lake is approximately 45 acres with a maximum depth of 17-20 ft and a mean depth of 10-12 ft.
The main inflow to the lake is from the ditch, a 12-mile diversion from the river that also receives
agricultural and stormwater runoff. The lake also receives the stormwater runoff from the surrounding
subdivision. Some of the lake water is permitted for irrigation and it is also used to water a near-by city
park and cemetery.
Reported Problem Before SolarBee Installation:
Homeowners reported summertime blue-green algae blooms increasing intensity since mid-1990s.
The lake had experienced fish kills associated with fall turnover events, most notably one in
September 1997, reflecting anoxic bottom waters during summer stratification.
SolarBee Installation:
Date: June 2003. Installed one SB10000 solar powered only; hose depth initially set at 15 ft. In August
2005, the original SB10000 and the SB10000R were replaced with the SB10000v12.
Results:
The lake has cleared up greatly, with Secchi depths sometimes reaching 14-17 ft. The organic muck
on the lake bottom has been reduced an estimated 6-12 inches in deeper waters, while the
near-shore sediments are firmer and easier to walk on. There has also been observed increases in
fish spawning in near-shore waters, with an associated increase in shore birds (e.g., pelicans)
feeding on young fish. There have been a few instances where blue-green algae thriving in the
Louden ditch were apparently washed into the lake during summer storm events. Nevertheless, local
residents are happy with the overall improved water quality and lake ecology.
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SolarBee
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SolarBee in the lake with the lakeside homes in the background.
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