BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Vermont’s first and only declared ‘lake in crisis’ is trying to clean itself up, again.

For decades, Lake Carmi has been plagued by toxic algae, which makes it impossible for swimmers to go out in late July through September.

Experts say runoff from roads, nearby properties, and farms has made Lake Carmi’s phosphorus levels too high. On Franklin’s hot summer days, those going to the lake at the state’s biggest campground see only green.

The state first implemented a million-dollar aeration system to try to clean up the mess. Officials said it made things worse. Now, they’re going to try a chemical solution.

“It has a really good chance of being super successful and for a long time,” said Keith Pilgrim of Barr Engineering.

This decision to use alum, a naturally

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