Bonita and FGCU partner for improved water quality

The Bonita Springs City Council has agreed to move closer toward a potential future partnership with Florida Gulf Coast University on a proposed Bonita Water Steward research technician.

Mayor Kevin Ruane (Sanibel), Chauncey Guass (South Florida Water Management District), Dr. Mike Martin (FGCU) and Dr. Greg Tolley(FGCU) spoke to council on the importance of water quality to the Southwest Florida area. Dr. Michael Parson(FGCU) followed up the discussion with a presentation outlining the potential benefits of partnering with FGCU to have a dedicated water steward to provide detailed analysis of the areas water quality.

The Scope of Work provides for a full-time research lab technician at the Vester Field Station in Bonita Springs to monitor for and respond to water quality concerns, including nitrogen, harmful algae, fish kills and additional water quality concerns in the Imperial River, Spring Creek, Estero Bay, and along Bonita Beach.

If finalized, funds in the amount of $83,780.00 are being requested to contract with FGCU for the position.