Miami Using New Device to Clean Polluted Wagner Creek

Solar-powered oxygenation machine helps reduce bacteria and improve water quality in badly contaminated waterway

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:53pm

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An abstract, ghostly X-ray image showing the intricate internal components of a water purification device, conveying the advanced technology used to clean up a polluted urban waterway.A high-tech water filtration device uses ionized air and advanced filters to purify a heavily polluted urban creek, restoring the natural ecosystem.Today in Miami

The city of Miami is using a new solar-powered device that oxygenates and filters the water in Wagner Creek, which has been described as the 'most polluted waterway in the state of Florida.' The device, developed by Miami-based Fast Cleaning Solutions, has helped reduce E. coli bacteria levels by 82% and improve the overall water quality in the creek, which drains into the Miami River and Biscayne Bay.

Why it matters

Wagner Creek's severe pollution, caused by historic industrial waste, stormwater runoff, and human waste from the homeless population, has been a major environmental and public health concern for the city. Cleaning up the creek is crucial to preventing the contamination from spreading further into the Miami River and Biscayne Bay, which could have widespread ecological and economic impacts.

The details

The oxygenation device works by distributing ionized, oxygenated air into the water, similar to 'a water-cleaning vacuum.' It also uses various filters to kill bacteria. The Miami River Commission, which is overseeing the pilot program, says the results have been 'remarkable,' with the water becoming 'crystal clear' and an 82% reduction in E. coli levels. Officials are now seeking funding to deploy additional units in the creek.

  • The pilot program with the oxygenation device began in 2026.
  • The Miami River Commission plans to meet with city officials on September 30, 2026 to discuss a funding plan for expanding the program.

The players

Horacio Stuart Aguirre

Chairman of the Miami River Commission, who has been leading the effort to clean up Wagner Creek.

Fast Cleaning Solutions, LLC

The Miami-based company that designed and developed the oxygenation device being used in Wagner Creek.

Christine King

Chairwoman of District 5, which includes part of Wagner Creek.

Miguel Gabela

Commissioner of District 1, which also includes part of Wagner Creek.

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What they’re saying

“If you look at the shoreline, the water is crystal clear. This is the way it is supposed to be, this is the way the good lord made it.”

— Horacio Stuart Aguirre, Chairman, Miami River Commission

“We don't need to go to billion dollar solutions, this is cost effective and it works.”

— Horacio Stuart Aguirre, Chairman, Miami River Commission

What’s next

Aguirre plans to meet with the city manager and the two commissioners whose districts are impacted by Wagner Creek to agree on a plan and funding budget ahead of the upcoming budget hearing on Sept. 30.

The takeaway

This innovative and cost-effective solution to clean up a badly polluted urban waterway could serve as a model for other cities facing similar environmental challenges, demonstrating that effective water remediation doesn't always require massive infrastructure investments.