Blue-Green Algae Activity Observed in the Areas of Lake Sevan and Little Sevan

The Ministry of the Environment is monitoring the greening of Lake Sevan. The professional divisions of the Ministry of Environment are keeping a close watch on the issue of blue-green algae activity in Lake Sevan on a daily basis. Currently, the activity of blue-green algae is being observed in both the large and small sections of Lake Sevan.

As a result of professional consultations, it has been noted that the main reasons for the intense growth of blue-green algae in the lake and the decline in water quality are the high water temperatures and the elevated phosphorus levels since last winter.

During the past year, approximately 100 hectares of forested areas have been cleared from coastal sections. The work will continue this year.

In parallel, work has begun on mapping and inventorying buildings and structures that are subject to dismantling, located below the 1901.5 meter mark along the banks of Lake Sevan. Community-owned buildings will be dismantled with state funds. Private property owners have already been sent relevant notifications to dismantle their buildings at their own expense.

Additionally, a document titled 'Issues of Restoration and Conservation of Ecosystem Balance in Lake Sevan, Necessary and Planned Actions for Regulation' has been developed and presented to EU partner donor organizations for funding purposes. Approximately 5 million euros have been allocated for these objectives.

The Ministry of Environment has identified three urgent measures requiring immediate action:
➡️ Prevention of wastewater flowing from the Gegharkunik region into the lake,
➡️ Re-cultivation of areas affected by mining waste,
➡️ Cleaning operations in the polluted riverbeds of the Lake Sevan watershed.

The issue of blue-green algae proliferation in Lake Sevan is under the attention of the Ministry of Environment. All necessary measures are being taken. The image shows a satellite view of Lake Sevan as of July 20, 2020.