A New Look at Potomac Yard's South Pond

They may not be as famous as the Potomac River’s Three Sisters, but the constructed wetland islands that recently appeared in the south pond at Potomac Yard in Alexandria are certainly doing special things.

This week, three floating rings made of recycled-plastic and adorned with wetland plants were craned into the pond underneath the Monroe Avenue Bridge as part of a state-of-the-art water filtration system.

The floating islands—which are about 20-feet in diameter—are anchored to the floor and help move water across the pond laterally, while bubblers move water vertically from the bottom. The movement prevents stagnant water and algae growth.

“They are emulating floating wetlands,” said Ian Ambler, the designer of the filtration system. “The plants take nutrients out of the water, preventing algae buildup.”

The islands also stimulate a more complete ecosystem, he said, along with a bacterial treatment to the water.

The wetland rings are also quite striking—maybe even a little hip.

As time passes, the wetland plants will grow over the plastic, creating a more naturalistic look.

The pond is surrounded with grasses trees that will also continue to grow with time, creating a natural barrier preventing humans from reaching the pond.

Frogs and turtles are already making their home in its waters.

The pond is just part of the 25-acre linear Potomac Yard Park that is expected to open as early as October along the eastern edge of the new development at Potomac Yard.

Connected by a lighted, 1.5-mile multi-use trail from Target to Braddock Road Metro station, the park will house its amenities in several “belvederes” or urban plazas located where the development’s streets dead-end into the rail tracks to the east. Each belvedere will contain a different amenity, including a stage, play fountain for children, playgrounds and athletic courts, among other amenities. Exercise equipment will dot the trail south of Monroe Avenue to the Metro station.

Look for more information on Potomac Yard Park soon on Patch.