Welcome to the CSRL Blog
Clean Streams, Rivers and Lakes (CSRL) is a Virginia 501(c)(3) charity, launched in January 2021, that restores ponds, lakes, rivers and streams with nature-based solutions — aeration, beneficial bacteria, diatom promotion and phosphorus binders — rather than toxic chemicals.
This blog is where we share what we are learning. After years of research and data gathering, we launched the charity in 2021, and our first year of results is documented in our 2021 case studies.
What we mean by “cleaning water”
For us, cleaning surface water means removing the excess nutrients — phosphorus and nitrogen, in other words pollution — that grow algae and weeds. When those nutrients are removed or put to work by beneficial organisms, the algae loses its fuel. That is the idea behind every program we run, and it is explained in detail on our page about how we clean water.
Who we work with
We work with anyone who owns or is responsible for a body of water: private landowners and property managers, HOAs and civic associations, corporations, water authorities, and federal, state and local governments. Our projects range from small private ponds to streams, rivers and lakes of any size.
How a project works
- Specifications and objectives. We determine the size and scope of the work, the budget and the outcomes you want.
- Project execution. We build a plan with measurable goals and a timeline, then deploy it while keeping you in the loop.
- Follow-up. We follow up until the goals are met and confirmed by third-party water quality testing, then recommend ongoing maintenance.
What you will find here
- Seasonal guidance on when to treat and what to do
- Plain-language explanations of the methods and products we use
- News and project updates from the charity
We thank our clients and donors for their generous support. Even the smallest donations have helped us obtain equipment and refine our water treatment programs.
If you have a pond or lake that needs attention, contact us for a free consultation or call Matt at 571-436-6327.
