The City of Titusville will launch a localized water-treatment pilot program at the Titusville Municipal Marina on Feb. 12 to combat nutrient pollution and muck accumulation in the Indian River Lagoon.

The eight-month project, a partnership with California-based Moleaer Inc., utilizes patented nanobubble technology to restore oxygen levels in the water. The initiative is funded entirely through private and business contributions from local leaders and organizations.

“This initiative reflects the best of who we are as a community — innovative, responsible, collaborative,” said Titusville Mayor Andrew Connors. He added that the project represents a “deep commitment to safeguarding our natural resources.”

The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) is an estuary of national significance, generating $14 billion in local gross domestic product and supporting 128,000 jobs. However, high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus have led to recurring harmful algal blooms and “muck” accumulation that degrades the ecosystem.

The pilot project features a trailer-mounted system at the marina, also known as Westland Marina. The setup includes a nanobubble generator with a flow rate of 1,000 gallons per minute and an ozone generator provided by Pinnacle.

“Nanobubble technology restores oxygen at the bottom, reactivating natural recovery processes,” said Dr. Denise Devotta, senior limnologist at Moleaer. “This leads to improved water quality, a healthier ecosystem, and greater long-term resiliency.”

Unlike traditional aeration, nanobubbles are extremely small and remain suspended in the water for long periods. This allows oxygen to reach the “muck” layer at the bottom of the marina, stimulating microbes to break down organic waste without the use of harsh chemicals.

Local business owners, including Laurilee Thompson of Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant, provided funding alongside Parrish Healthcare, Pinnacle, and Robin L. Fisher and Associates, Inc. The Economic Development Commission (EDC) of Florida’s Space Coast also supported the venture.

“The decline in IRL water quality greatly affects the commercial and recreational fishing industries,” Thompson said. “This pilot project at the Titusville Marina could jump-start new technology solutions.”

The city is collaborating with Florida Tech and Brevard County Natural Resources to conduct a robust monitoring plan. Experts will collect monthly water and sediment samples and use data loggers to track dissolved oxygen levels every hour.

“The lagoon has always proven to be a significant economic contributor, and its restoration is a priority,” said Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the EDC.

The city will host a “Flip the Switch from Green to Clean” ceremonial event on March 3 at 10:30 a.m. at the marina to officially mark the launch. If the pilot is successful, officials may explore broader implementation of the technology throughout the lagoon.

Moleaer’s technology is currently used in more than 4,000 installations across 55 countries. The company received the 2022 Water Project of the Year award at the Global Water Awards.

Additional information on the project and real-time updates can be found at Titusville.com/nanobubbles.