[Our guest writers are Richard F Bauman, who has BS and MSChE degrees from Drexel and NYU. Rich worked in R&D on catalytic processes for 45 years and is currently CEO of C2XX Corp which develops and licenses coal to fuels technology.  Enoch J Ledet has BA and MS Biology/Biochemistry Degrees from Louisiana State University, New Orleans and over 40 years experience in Petrochemistry, especially in Environmental Analytical Chemistry( Air, Water, Hazardous Wastes).  They have made several presentations to the Lake Whatcom Data Team, Mayor’s Office, written articles in Local Newspapers, Online Articles, and given presentations on local Radio Talk Shows.]

What is the Problem?

Lake Whatcom, the primary drinking water source for Bellingham, Washington, is facing a serious issue: oxygen levels at the bottom of the lake (the hypolimnion) are getting too low, which is dangerous for fish, water quality, and long-term ecosystem health. Because of this, the lake is officially considered “impaired” by the U.S. government under the Clean Water Act.

What’s Causing the Low Oxygen?

The study (see RELATED LINKS below for unabridged version) treats this like a chemistry problem. Just like in a lab, the lake has chemical reactions going on—specifically, respiration processes where tiny organisms (bacteria, algae, phytoplankton) consume oxygen. Here’s what’s happening:

• Respiration behaves like a “Zero Order” chemical reaction, which means it uses up oxygen at a constant rate, regardless of how much oxygen is present.
• This reaction is sped up by bacteria and phytoplankton enzymes, natural catalysts that help chemical reactions go faster.
• Temperature matters: Warmer water leads to more enzyme activity and faster oxygen loss. Cooler water slows things down.

Why Does Temperature Matter So Much?

The lake is divided into three basins. Each one warms up and stratifies (forms layers) in warm weather months at different times:

• Basin 1and 2 are the shallower and warmest and lose oxygen the fastest.
• Basin 3 is the deepest and coldest and keeps its oxygen longer.

The difference in temperature and enzyme levels, effects these tiny organisms' growth and reaction rates and helps explain why some parts of the lake are losing oxygen faster than others.

What is the Data Behind This?

Two main sets of data were used:

• Older data (Dr Jerry Flora’s reports, 1962–1973): Good for seeing trends over time, but only surface and bottom samples.
• Modern data (WWU, 1988–2024): More accurate, includes monthly readings and advanced techniques.

Using both data sets helps paint a full picture of how the lake has changed over the decades.

What Can Be Done to Fix It?

The study suggests creative engineering solutions using ideas from both chemistry and physics:

1. Transfer cold, oxygen-rich water from the healthy part of the lake (Basin 3) into the struggling areas (Basins 1 and 2) through a tunnel or pump system.
2. Pump enzyme-rich water into Whatcom Creek to help reduce excess nutrients like phosphorus (which can cause algae growth).
3. Tested a small-scale model to see if water could be moved between areas without disrupting the lake’s natural layering—and it worked.
4. Simulation Video- Small Scale

Why This Matters.

By treating the lake like a living chemistry experiment, scientists and engineers hope to restore healthy oxygen levels. This isn’t just good for fish—it’s essential for keeping the drinking water clean for the entire Bellingham area.

Note: A list of related reference studies and papers can be found below under DOWNLOADABLE FILES.