Hello! Just jumping in here for the first time. In response to your question:

Jacky Foo <foo@swipnet.se> commented:
>I am beginning to understand that your Lake Restorer units are not floating on the lagoon

Actually, there are a few variations on the theme. Since 1992, we have experimented with floating systems (five to date). All have been located typically in the deepest part of the water body being restored. They have been anchored. Theoretically a Restorer could be moved around the water body if needed. Our latest design will allow for this flexibility.

An older Living Machine in Harwich, MA treated a septage lagoon using a land based technology (along the shoreline). We have considered similar technology for newer projects where specific conditions preclude the construction of a floating system. The benefits of the latter leave us inclined to opt for  floating systems. Restorers, for example, do not demand precious land, are less energy intensive (the height of water lifted is less) and can be more appealing visually (less conspicuous). The trick for many of these ponds/lakes (and lagoons) in need lies in the depth. Often ponds undergoing rapid eutrophication,for example, have filled in to the extent that depths are often 3 feet or less. Again, designs tailored to these circumstances are recent additions to our tool bag.

>Are the LR units installed on land and ideally beside the lake where you
>then draw water from the lake to these LR units for treatment ? So they are
>not on "barges" nor floating on a lake as Dave  Cannon has also understood.

There are designs for barge living machines out there. To my knowledge, none have been constructed yet.

>are plant biomasses periodically removed in LM systems ? I dont think I
>read it in any of the homepages, etc.

Yes they are removed periodically. We do this in our Restorers. I know it is being done on a regular basis at the Burlington, VT LM by the horticulturist.

I recall someone's comment about research priorities. I believe the determination of higher plants contribution to these systems is one sorely in need of attention. Guidelines for harvesting biomass and reuse are as yet unclear. Research analysing the composition of the biomass is also important, as well narrowing in on plants appropriate for the biological health of such systems.

Sincerely,
Christine Graziano
Ocean Arks International
Project Manager