McLeod Lake in Stockton Turns Pink for Science Study
Scientists have turned McLeod Lake in Stockton, California, a bright pink color this week. They’re doing this to study harmful algae in the water.
The California Department of Water Resources is running the study to learn how to stop these dangerous algae from growing.
What They’re Doing
Scientists put 20 pounds of pink dye into the lake. The dye helps them see how water moves in the lake. Ellen Priest from the California Department of Water Resources says the dye is safe and won’t hurt anything in the water.
The pink color will stay in the lake until the end of the week. Scientists are using special tools to watch how the dye moves around.
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Why It’s Important
Priest says understanding how water moves in the lake can help answer big questions about harmful algae. They want to know why algae grow in some years but not others, and if the algae can spread to other parts of the Delta.
The scientists hope this study will help them find ways to stop harmful algae from growing, especially near Stockton’s waterfront.
Why Harmful Algae are Bad
Harmful algae can make toxins that are dangerous for people and animals. If you touch water with these toxins, you might get itchy skin. If you swallow the water, it could make you very sick.
What’s Next
The scientists will keep watching the pink water all week. They plan to do more studies like this next year. All of this work is to help keep the water safe for people and animals.
This study is part of a bigger plan to stop harmful algae from growing in lakes and rivers. By understanding how water moves and algae grow, scientists hope to protect the health of people and nature.
