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Coral Gables agrees to host trial of resident inventor's water‑oxygenation device and seek academic testing
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Summary
Commission approved a staff‑recommended trial location and a three‑month follow‑up for data after resident inventor Richard Ricardo presented an oxygenation/graphene device he says reduces pathogens, mercury and microplastics; commissioners asked for FIU and University of Miami testing and Waterway Advisory Board engagement.
A Coral Gables resident and inventor, Richard Ricardo, demonstrated a trailer‑mounted aquatic sensing and inoculation device that he said generates long‑lasting dissolved oxygen (nano‑bubbles) while reducing pathogens and contaminants. Ricardo requested a place to park and deploy the prototype for data collection; he said trials run on solar power and have produced preliminary results including reduced odor and improved clarity in small tests.
Vice Mayor Anderson and other commissioners asked staff to coordinate independent testing with Florida International University (FIU), University of Miami and Miami Waterkeeper; the vice mayor recommended targeting oxygen‑depleted "dead‑end" canals for the initial trial. Commissioners and staff discussed making the Waterway Advisory Board a near‑term forum for evaluation; the commission directed staff to identify a suitable trial location, coordinate testing with academic and nonprofit water experts, and place a three‑month follow‑up report on the agenda.
The motion to authorize a location for the demonstration and to direct staff to coordinate independent testing passed unanimously. Commissioners stressed scientific rigor and public‑agency coordination before any broader deployment. Ricardo and city staff agreed to present baseline and post‑deployment data at the follow‑up hearing.
