Following a $14 million renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Republican Congressman Tim Burchett of Tennessee has suggested a low-tech approach to address recurring algae and paint issues: allowing nature to take its course.
The pool has recently faced problems with algae growth and paint discoloration, just days after the completion of its restoration project. While former President Donald Trump, who hailed the renovation as a picture-perfect restoration, has suggested vandalism as the cause, Burchett believes the issues are a natural phenomenon.
"It's algae. It's science. It's just going to happen," Burchett stated in a recent exchange. He noted that maintaining such bodies of water typically involves filtration systems and treatments like chlorine or peroxide.
However, Burchett proposed an alternative: "Honestly, I think it would be cool if they just let it go and create an ecosystem. Have fish in there and everything and just let it go. I think it would be a cool way to go."
Burchett drew a parallel to his own experience renovating a pool at his home, which he described as having been "just a frog pond." After receiving an $80,000 quote for the work, he completed the renovation himself for approximately $2,500.