The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is a significant site in American history. It has been the backdrop for numerous protests and celebrations. Recently, it has become the focus of unexpected controversy.

In April, President Trump criticized the pool’s condition, describing the water as “filthy” and “disgusting.” He authorized an urgent contract to refurbish the basin, intending to paint it “American flag blue” before the July 4th festivities. This contract, unusual for its lack of competitive bidding, aimed to enhance the pool’s appearance.

The National Park Service took on this task. However, after investing over $14 million, the reflective pool appears green. This hue is comparable to the Chicago River during St. Patrick’s Day. The cause is algae, a common phenomenon in the pool.

Algae have been a challenge since the pool’s creation in 1923. Warm, stagnant conditions contribute to its growth, particularly under the intense summer sun of Washington D.C. A satellite analysis by the University of Virginia highlighted a significant algae presence, at levels higher than in the past five years.

The Interior Department has responded by installing a “state-of-the-art ozone nanobubbler filtration system.” Spokesperson Kate Martin emphasized President Trump’s commitment to resolving the issue. In contrast, she criticized previous efforts under President Obama, which aimed to enhance the pool’s structural integrity and filtration.

Despite political tensions, the algae problem transcends partisan divisions. The green algae in the Reflecting Pool remain a persistent issue, indifferent to political affiliations.