Lagoon FAQ – Why are some Lagoons different in water colour?
Lagoon water can appear different in colours for many different reasons. While some reasons are biological, some reasons are caustic and chemical. Some Lagoons that freeze due to colder environments can go from one colour to another over the winter, then back again once biological action is restored. Most commonly identified in Lagoons are 3 main colour groups: Brown, Green and White/Grey. Below we’ll discuss the three main types.
Another important part of colour variation is the depth of a Lagoon. The water colour can vary due to stratification (water columns/layers). This is to say that shallow Lagoons often convey more colour due to the lack of added stratification blending the colour palette. A deeper Lagoon could carry the same amount of waste but appear clearer due to added water layers.
Water Colours explained:
Green – Caused by algae blooms under or on top of the surface. Any algae that blooms on the surface are obvious, however under the surface, the water can appear clear with a green tint. Algae is caused by too many nutrients in the cell and can slow biodegrading.
Grey/White – Likely caused by phosphates, chemical or otherwise; precipitation of calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate. If there is intensive aeration and high inorganic carbon content, CO2 can be degassed resulting in pH increase and mineral precipitation.
Brown (milky brown) – Caused by a healthy operating Lagoon! A primary cell with a consistent milky brown colour is due to the proper amount of biological action and a lower amount of nutrients, phosphates, suspended solids and FOG. There is virtually no odor and bubbles from the biological action are visible. When Waste Go is administered properly, this is what you can expect.
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