In 2008, CCBWQA installed a Reservoir Destratification System (RDS) in the Cherry Creek Reservoir that is operated on a seasonal basis. The RDS includes a compressor that feeds air to a system of HDPE pipes with 116 air diffusers in the bottom of the reservoir.  The purpose of the RDS is to mix the water column to reduce thermal stratification of the reservoir, which may occur between April and October.  Cherry Creek Reservoir is considered  polymictic, meaning it mixes multiple times during the growing season. When thermal stratification of the reservoir occurs, low dissolved oxygen concentrations at the bottom of the reservoir lead to internal nutrient loading, which increases productivity (algal growth). Additionally, cyanobacteria have a buoyancy advantage over other algal types under stratified reservoir conditions and artificial mixing can limit growth of undesirable species.

For more RDS annual reports and additional information, visit our library.