Pool Maintenance—As we slip into fall and winter months, the Maintenance Team’s focus shifts to annual and on- going projects. One such project is the troublesome appearance of black algae in our pool. While this is not a cause for alarm, it is important to recognize and treat its existence.
First of all, swimmers will not be harmed by the presence of black algae. It is present in the environment and usually is transferred from natural bodies of water like oceans, ponds, and lakes by clinging onto swimwear. If the ocean, lake, or pond water hasn’t been rinsed off before using a swimming pool, the algae can be transferred into the pool. The algae is a nuisance, but will not, by itself, cause illness. Plus, in our pool we are not dealing with a full bloom that would produce visible black or bluish-green spots that would most certainly be an eyesore. The algae was only discovered during a closure in 2019 when maintenance noticed a few black spots in one area on the pool wall and the grout line.
After a great deal of research, we were directed to an expert pool chemist who developed a treatment protocol to eradicate black algae. We continue to see recurrences, but they are smaller and, with continued treatments during bi- annual maintenance closure, the results have been almost complete eradication of the algae. These treatments do necessitate extending the closures but the results are worth it!
You Can Help—As always, if you see an area that might need attention, please submit a homeowner’s request either by email, or by using the “Online Service Request Form” or “Homeowner Request Form” available on the Niguel Shores website, or stopping by the office. Your request will be reviewed by the Maintenance Committee and addressed at our next meet- ing. That way YOU TOO can be involved in keeping Niguel Shores the “extremely well-maintained community” it is.
—Geoff Dunlevie
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