Clearlake Algea Harvesting Demonstration Project

The City of Clearlake, funded by the California Natural Resources Agency, is implementing the Clearlake Algae Harvesting Demonstration Project at Redbud Park. This temporary pilot program, conducted by Blue Cycle Technologies, utilizes Hydronucleation Flotation Technology to remove algal and cyanobacterial biomass, nutrients, and cyanotoxins from lake water. The project aims to generate critical data to support future harmful algal bloom management strategies for Clear Lake and other California water bodies. The operational process involves withdrawing water from the lake, separating the biomass, and returning clarified water to a semi-enclosed treatment zone created by turbidity curtains. The project is expected to operate for approximately three weeks, processing up to 21 million gallons of water and generating about 22,000 gallons of algae slurry. To protect the environment, the system is designed to avoid any ground disturbance or impact on the lakebed, utilizing water pumps and lines installed just below the surface with filters and screens to prevent harm to fish and native species. Continuous monitoring will be conducted to document system process controls as well as influent, effluent, and lake water quality. The project is classified under NAICS code 562910 and is exempt under California Environmental Quality Act Sections 15061 (B3) and 15306 due to its nature as a pilot program with minimal environmental impact.