Problem: Golf course fairways are lush and green because they are heavily watered and fertilized. Unfortunately, algae in the ponds and water hazards use these same mineral nutrients to drive photosynthesis. This captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and converts it into organic matter, ultimately loading the pond with muck and depleting the oxygen. That was the case at Bahamian Sandals Resort, Emerald Bay-Exuma.
Solution: The Aerobic Bacterial Generator from SludgeHammer uses specialized bacteria with a high digestion rate to compete with the anaerobic bacteria that cause problems in the leachfield. Because the ABG was designed as a free-standing unit to use in any existing septic tank, it can also be “free floating.” The unit digests all that organic carbon back to carbon dioxide, returning it to the atmosphere. Since there was no electricity at the ponds, SludgeHammer developed an on-site solar powered system. Luckily the units are powered by low wattage linear blowers, so it was realistic to go solar.
Result: The units are floating, providing air and bacteria in the battle for clarity in the water, and elimination of the muck.
231-348-5866; www.sludgehammer.net
