Volary to Build New Wastewater Treatment Plant to Save Lake Lipno from Blue-Green Algae

The Czech town of Volary is set to build a new wastewater treatment plant aimed at improving water quality in the Lipno reservoir. According to the regional governor, the construction plans were discussed with Volary's town leadership and the state enterprise Povodí Vltavy.

Regional data show that roughly 20 tonnes of phosphorus flow into the reservoir every year, fuelling rampant blue-green algae growth. One of the biggest sources of pollution has been identified as the Volarský Stream, contaminated due to a faulty sewage system in Volary.

What Will Change After the Upgrade

The new treatment plant will operate under far stricter phosphorus limits than the current facility. The project also includes larger backup storage tanks, since the existing plant cannot cope with the surge in flow during heavy rainstorms.

"During such periods, water from the Volarský Stream bypasses treatment altogether so that the large volume doesn't damage the plant's equipment. As a result, it flows straight into Lipno," the governor explained. He noted that the larger storage tanks will allow water to be held back for as long as necessary, so that once the rain stops, it can first be treated and only then released into the reservoir.

Why This Matters for Lipno

Phosphorus entering the reservoir through wastewater and agricultural fertiliser runoff drives excessive blue-green algae blooms — a problem that has grown noticeably worse at Lipno in recent years and directly affects water quality at this popular recreational destination.

Read also: 8 best swimming spots near Prague: lakes, quarries and beaches within an hour's drive of the capital

Around Prague, based on reporting by ekolist.cz