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Project title

Investigation into the causes, impacts and measures to deal with algal blooms in Vartry Reservoirs

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Liwen Xiao

Project Abstract

Vartry Reservoir is an important drinking water source in Ireland. Diatom algal blooms have caused problems in the sand filters in the Roundwood water treatment plant since 2007 (except 2010). In 2013 and 2014, the situation worsened and serious spring diatom algal blooms occurred, with peak concentrations of diatom algal up to 1750 and 2457 counts/ml, respectively, resulting in serious clogging of the slow sand filters and a reduction in treatment capacity from 75 million litres to 40 million litres per day and consequently water shortages in the North Wicklow and South Dublin area two years in a row. In addition, diatom algal blooms might also contribute to the high THMs in the Vartry Water Supply Scheme. Therefore, the aim of the proposed study is to investigate the cause of the diatom algal blooms in Vartry Reservoir and to identify potential measures to deal with the impact of algal blooms in Roundwood water treatment plants. This proposed project is important not only for the Vartry Water Supply Scheme but also for water supplies nationwide, as more than 70 mesotrophic lakes are used as water supply sources in Ireland. Final report on the cause, impacts and potential mitigation measures to deal with diatom algal blooms in Vartry Reservior; A 2-page summary report at the end of the project; 1 PhD theses and 4 peer reviewed papers in journals such as Water Research; Six-monthly newsletters; Database and calibrated models for nutrient budgets and algal growth in Vartry Reservoir; Guidelines, best management practices and potential measures to reduce nutrient loads into the Vartry Reservoir and to prevent algal blooms; Measures to mitigate impact of algal blooms in Irish waters; Presentations at peer reviewed national and international conferences

Grant Approved

�149,949.79

Research Hub

Healthy Environment

Research Theme

Safe water

Start Date

01/03/2015

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/03/2018