Velnezers Lake Restoration Success Showcased at International Conference

On April 10–11, the Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology (LHEI) participated in the 67th International Scientific Conference of Daugavpils University, in a session held in honor of LHEI’s 30th anniversary. The session was dedicated to aquatic research brought together experts and innovators in the field.

One of the conference highlights was the presentation of the TRUST ALUM project, titled:
“Implementing New Lake Restoration Methods in Latvia: Preparing for the First Aluminum Treatment in the Baltic States” by Barbara Massalska-Duszczyk.

The presentation introduced a pioneering effort in the Baltic region — the first-ever aluminum treatment for lake restoration, carried out in Lake Velnezers, Riga. This method, used globally in over 200 lakes, tackles internal phosphorus loading — one of the main causes of lake eutrophication.

Extensive pre-treatment monitoring revealed severe phosphorus-related issues and poor ecological conditions in the lake. With the optimal aluminum dose modeled at 56 g Al/m², early post-treatment results already show reduced phosphorus levels and promising signs of ecological recovery.

This pilot initiative not only showcases innovation in lake management but also lays the foundation for broader adoption of this cost-effective and scientifically proven method in the Baltic States.

A big thank you to all participants and hosts at Daugavpils University for supporting knowledge exchange and celebrating three decades of LHEI’s work in aquatic science!

Programme Manual Online

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