Reservoir Aeration
Reservoir water quality
Reservoirs are a vital component of the UK’s freshwater infrastructure, ensuring a reliable water supply to homes and businesses throughout the year. However, climate change presents growing challenges for those responsible for managing reservoir water quality.
Rising temperatures increase the risk of destratification and the formation of anoxic zones, as well as the frequency and severity of harmful algal blooms (HABs). These developments can significantly raise both operational costs and the cost of water treatment.
Innovative fine bubble aeration technologies have emerged as a practical and cost-effective way to safeguard reservoir performance. By disrupting thermal stratification and improving oxygen distribution, these systems can reduce treatment demands and enhance long-term asset resilience.
As the UK supplier of Bubble Tubing® and OctoAir®, we are supported by a globally respected engineering team with a proven record in optimising aeration and reducing water treatment costs.
Solutions
Solutions for improving reservoir water quality
Revolutionising
Managing eutrophication and reducing nutrients
Aeration supports nutrient cycling and helps reduce ammonia in reservoirs. In aerobic conditions, micro-organisms oxidise ammonium (NH₄⁺) to nitrate (NO₃⁻), while oxygen at the sediment/water interface binds phosphorus to iron and other minerals, locking it in the sediments. In anaerobic conditions, this bond breaks, releasing phosphorus into the water column and increasing the risk of harmful algal blooms.
Controlling algae and cyanobacteria blooms
Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can be toxic and release metabolites that alter the taste and odour of water. We offer leading aeration systems which improve water quality by managing nutrient levels and oxygenating the water column, reducing conditions that allow algal blooms to grow.
Destratification and deep-water oxygenation
Fine-bubble aeration promotes water circulation, reducing thermal stratification and improving oxygen distribution throughout the water column. This helps maintain habitats for aquatic life and limits the formation of anoxic zones. Oxygenating deeper layers also enhances microbial breakdown of organic matter, reducing internal nutrient recycling and improving water clarity.
Preventing fish kills and oxygen depletion
Low oxygen levels caused by warm temperatures and decomposing vegetation can lead to fish mortality. Benthic aeration helps maintain adequate oxygen throughout the water column, protecting aquatic ecosystems from sudden collapse. Emergency aeration is often required in low oxygen environments, alongside a long term strategy.
Reducing excessive manganese and iron
Under low-oxygen (reducing) conditions, iron and manganese are converted to soluble forms that can impair water quality. Aeration raises oxygen levels, oxidising these metals to insoluble forms that precipitate and settle, reducing their impact on treatment processes.
Enhancing long-term asset resilience
Reservoirs facing increased pressures due to climate change benefit from early investment in scalable aeration systems. These interventions improve resilience, reduce treatment costs, and safeguard water quality for the future.
Case studies
Real solutions, proven results
Why choose us
Frog Environmental is a leading specialist in water quality management, silt control, and environmental protection solutions across the UK and Europe.
With a deep commitment to sustainability and scientific innovation, we help industries manage water pollution, comply with environmental regulations, and enhance biodiversity.
Our expertise spans a range of cutting-edge solutions, including silt control products, bubble curtains, and specialist water treatment services.
Award winning solutions
We’ve won national and international awards of our innovative solutions
Scalable, flexible projects
Our solutions are scalable, so can be designed to suit any size of works or project
Full technical support
We provide full technical support & site specific specification advice
Were an experienced, technical team
Our technical team are leaders in their field, with years of experience
We think about the environment
Most of our products use bio-degradable materials that save money & positively help the environment
Protecting water and life supported by water
We’re 100% committed to providing you with an effective solution
Knowledge Hub
Sharing good practice
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A study on check dams.
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