Isla Mujeres, Q.R. — Zofemat personnel have collected over 130 tons of sargassum from Isla Mujeres beaches. The over abundance of seaweed hit the island hard after more than two days of stormy weather.
The mass clean and collection took place Saturday on Playa Norte, a beach known globally for its white sand and crystal clear water. Zofemat (Zona Federal Marítimo Terrestre) staff, who are charged with clearing federal beach areas, removed the 130 tons of washed up seaweed in a single day.
“Committed to preserving the unparalleled beauty of Isla Mujeres’ beaches, which are a tourist magnet, the Municipal Government, led by Mayor Atenea Gómez Ricalde, through Zofemat Isla Mujeres, removed more than 130 tons of sargassum from Playa Norte,” Zofemat Director Dayana Pérez Medina reported.
She said the 130 tons of sargassum arrived at Playa Norte during the bad weather, covering an area of 150 linear meters.
“At the express instruction of the island mayor we have doubled our efforts to promptly address the sargassum buildup and keep our beaches clean, beautiful and tidy,” said Pérez Medina.
The municipal official specified that having the necessary tools and equipment including a new backhoe, helped in the work. “Thanks to the commitment and daily efforts of our Zofemat warriors, the sargassum is being promptly addressed so that island families and tourists can enjoy the beauty and cleanliness of Isla Mujeres’ beaches,” she said.
Normally the island of Isla Mujeres is not affected by the floating sargassum, however, storms often redirect the seaweed, landing it on the island’s beach areas. This is the second time this month the island’s Playa Norte was hit by sargassum.
