Stormwater Management
Algal Turf Scrubbers
LOCATION
Bladensburg, MD
CLIENTS
Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC)
ROLE
Design, construction, operation, and training for Algal Turf Scrubber (ATS) system
TIMELINE
2021-Present
STATUS
Ongoing
COLLABORATION
MNCPPC staff
University of Maryland
Local community volunteers
~80 kg
dry algae harvested per year
~1.5 acres
of impervious surface treated
Project Overview
Green Mechanics partnered with the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) to design and operate an Algal Turf Scrubbers® (ATS™) at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. The system filters water from the Anacostia River by growing algae on shallow flow-ways. Each week, the algae is harvested, permanently removing pollutants while providing a powerful demonstration of nature-based stormwater solutions. Beyond water treatment, the ATS™ acts as a living classroom, connecting residents, students, and visitors to the health of their local waterways.
Problem Statement
The Anacostia River has long faced challenges with stormwater pollution, nutrient runoff, and sediment build-up from urban development. These pollutants reduce water quality, harm fish and wildlife, and affect recreational opportunities. Traditional stormwater systems are expensive, hidden underground, and rarely engage the community.
Solution
Installed a 45 m² Algal Turf Scrubber® to continuously clean river water.
Weekly algae harvesting removes pollutants and improves water clarity.
Local interns and volunteers trained in ecological engineering practices.
Public tours and workshops connect the community to clean water goals.
Innovation
The Bladensburg Waterfront Park ATS™ Project showcases innovation by turning stormwater management into a visible, low-cost, and community-driven solution. Using a shallow flow-way to grow algae that capture pollutants, the system not only improves water quality but also doubles as an educational platform and training ground. By combining recycled materials, hands-on learning, and public engagement, it reimagines stormwater treatment as an interactive model of ecological engineering that is both affordable and replicable.
Impact
Environmental Outcomes
Water Quality: Pollution removal equal to runoff from ~1.5 acres of pavement
Nutrient Capture: ~5.4 lbs of Nitrogen and ~0.7 lbs of Phosphorus removed each year
Sediment Reduction: ~0.06 tons of sediment filtered annually
Carbon Benefits: Algae locks away carbon while producing oxygen, making the river healthier
Community Outcomes
Workforce Training: 4 interns gained skills in system operation and monitoring.
Public Engagement: More than 60 community members participated in tours and hands-on activities.
Educational Value: Demonstrations for schools, local organizations, and residents spark interest in ecological engineering.
Visibility: Unlike hidden pipes or tanks, the ATS is a visible, interactive solution for everyone to see.
Economic Outcomes
Stormwater Savings: If the park were privately owned, the system would offset ~6–8 ERUs, saving ~$600–$900 per year.
Credit Value: Equivalent to ~$37,500 in stormwater credit market value.
Cost Efficiency: Installed and operated for under $10,000 — much cheaper than traditional stormwater systems.
Holistic Significance
This project demonstrates how nature-based innovation can restore rivers, provide jobs, and engage the community at the same time.
Affordability
By using recycled materials, student partnerships, and community engagement, the ATS offers a low-cost solution with high impact.
Conclusion
The Bladensburg Waterfront Park Algal Turf Scrubbers® (ATS™) Project shows how nature-based innovation can restore waterways while creating economic and community value. By filtering pollutants equal to runoff from 1.5 acres of pavement each year, capturing nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment, and engaging over 60 residents and interns in hands-on training, the system transforms stormwater management into a visible act of stewardship. With installation and operation costs under $10,000 yet delivering $37,500 in credit value, the ATS demonstrates that affordable, scalable solutions can improve water quality, build local capacity, and inspire public connection to the Anacostia River—making it a replicable model for communities across the Chesapeake Bay and beyond.
