University of Bath Team Tests Algae‑Control Device in Wiltshire Lake

Researchers from the University of Bath have launched field trials of an innovative system aimed at suppressing toxic algal blooms, installing it in a lake in Wiltshire as a proof‑of‑concept.

The project arrives as worries mount over harmful cyanobacteria spreading in UK freshwater bodies, a trend tied to warmer temperatures and nutrient runoff from farming. These blooms can emit toxins hazardous to people, livestock and wildlife, spurring calls for effective countermeasures.

The Bath group’s solution consists of a mechanised apparatus that combats algae growth without chemical additives. Although the precise workings are kept proprietary, the device changes local water conditions to make the habitat less favorable for toxin‑producing organisms. Initial lab trials showed a drop in algal density, leading to the shift to an outdoor test.

In the lake experiment, the team tracks metrics such as chlorophyll levels, dissolved‑oxygen content and toxin presence. They gather data via automated sensors together with periodic manual samples, enabling comparison between treated sections and untreated control zones. The pilot seeks to determine whether the technology can provide reliable, scalable outcomes.

Local stakeholders—including the lake’s managing authority and nearby community groups—have welcomed the work, highlighting possible gains for recreation, tourism and public health. Their support has granted site access and helped ensure the trial complies with environmental regulations.

Should the field findings match laboratory predictions, the researchers intend to refine the apparatus and consider larger‑scale deployments in other impacted waterways. A successful result could add a crucial tool to the fight against freshwater algal toxicity, alongside measures such as nutrient management and public‑awareness campaigns.