The City of Prescott Engineering and Public Works Department, in cooperation with their vendor partner IXOM, will begin installation of water circulator machines at Watson Lake starting Friday. These solar powered devices will help address the pollution concerns identified by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality and the Environmental Protection Agency. These devices will help increase the dissolved oxygen in the lake and reduce the nutrients that can cause harmful algal blooms in the summertime.
Aeration is one of several tools that have been identified by ADEQ and the City to help improve water quality for the benefit of recreation, aesthetics, and wildlife. It should result in better and safer experiences for anglers, paddlers, and all who visit the lake.
The solar powered devices were recommended after extensive research into all reasonable alternatives. They represented the most cost-effective option while also having fewer ongoing maintenance needs. The Prescott City Council approved the contract for their purchase and installation in November of 2023.
The aerators operate under the water, by circulating the lake water, up to 10,000 gallons per minute. On the surface, the main feature that will be seen are the solar panels which power the machinery.
According to Matt Killeen, Environmental Coordinator for the City of Prescott. “Watson Lake represents one of the crown jewels of Prescott. These machines will help polish it up considerably by improving clarity of the water and will benefit all who visit and the wildlife that rely on these waters.”
The City will be providing outreach materials at the Lake’s docks so that visitors may be informed of their purpose and function.
For more information about the project, contact Matt Killeen a 928-777-11130 ext. 5018. Or email WatershedSmart@Prescott-az.gov. Information is also available on the City website
