Florida Poly researcher searches for root cause of Florida algae crisis

Anyone who has lived along coastal Florida, or even near the state’s expansive network of rivers, lakes and streams, knows well that algae can turn paradise into stink and muck.

More than that, algae blooms pose serious public health threats to drinking water and threaten the state’s robust tourism economy.

A researcher at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland has an idea to address the problem.

Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Yudi Wu is developing and testing an innovative process to improve water conditions and reduce algae growth, using a $300,000 grant from the Department of Environmental Protection.

Wu is conducting research at the City of Lakeland’s Se7en Wetlands park through a two-year collaboration with Florida A&M University to remove nitrogen and phosphorus found to act as catalysts for rapid algae growth that disrupts ecosystems and degrades water quality by leading to an overload of nutrients known as eutrophication, the underlying cause of algae blooms.

Now, Wu and a research team she is leading are planning to deploy floating columns made of a sustainable charcoal-like material called biochar, engineered to absorb and safely release nitrogen and phosphorus, with the goal of preventing nutrient buildup and restoring ecological balance.

“Eutrophication has been troublesome in Florida for a very long time, and the government has put a lot of effort into solving the problem, with (the Department of Environmental Protection) trying different innovative methods,” Wu said. “We are honored to join the many people working on this issue, especially because Se7en Wetlands and so many others face this problem.”

The problem is particularly prevalent at Se7en Wetlands, which was built at the site of a former phosphate mine. The wetlands filter millions of gallons of treated wastewater each day while providing a habitat for Florida wildlife. Because of the former phosphate mine, Wu said there is more phosphorus than nitrogen to remove.

The columns that will be deployed are 3-5 feet tall and will be attached to the bottom of a floating device, filled with limestone and a biochar composite that absorbs phosphate and allows the column to release nitrogen gas, reducing levels in the water.

Once the columns have been placed, extensive water quality analysis will be the next step.

Wu is partnering with student researchers on the project.

“When they look back, I want them to see that this was helpful in boosting their career or professional development,” she said. “I feel proud to see them grow from these research projects and become professionals in this field.”

One of the undergraduates currently working with Wu is Atticus Blake, a freshman majoring in civil engineering.

“The wetlands are such an interesting ecosystem to work with, so I was really interested in doing research in that field,” said Blake, who worked in a university science department during gap years between high school and enrollment at Florida Poly.

“I understand it’s unusual to be in this position as a freshman, so I’m excited to be part of Dr. Wu’s work throughout my undergrad years. I want to build a strong bond and understanding of her research and related areas.”

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