Proposed FGCU research project would monitor bacteria in the Estero River

The village of Estero and Florida Gulf Coast University may team up to monitor types of bacteria in the Estero River and where they come from.

Three FGCU professors have proposed a 15-month research project, which would involve collecting water samples and lab testing to identify bacteria and nutrients in a portion of the Estero River.

The river, which winds through the village to Estero Bay, is classified as a special water in the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Outstanding Florida Water program.

It also has been recognized by the state agency as “impaired for dissolved oxygen and bacteria,” according to the village.

At a public meeting at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, the Estero Village Council will consider the research proposal and the approval of a $48,000 contract to fund the project.