Sargassum management in Anguilla has been given a boost with a new piece of equipment designed to make beach clean-ups faster, more efficient and less labour-intensive.
The Department of Natural Resources presented its first Barber Surf Rake, a tractor-towed beach cleaner, at a blessing ceremony on Friday, 21 February.
Environment director Carencia Rouse said the new machinery will help to remove sargassum – a brown seaweed that can accumulate in thick, rotting piles, producing a foul smell and disrupting tourism.
It will also support the department’s ongoing efforts to maintain the natural beauty of the sand and stability of the coastline across the island.
The Blue Belt Programme – the UK government’s international marine conservation programme – provided the funds for the rake.
“I am begging for everyone’s participation and contribution in maintaining the quality of this piece of equipment,” Rouse said to those gathered at the ceremony.
“Over the years, with equipment, if you don’t maintain it then it deteriorates in quality, so we want to avoid that.
“And I’m asking you, actually begging you, to please do your part in making sure that this equipment can continue to function towards sustainability in Anguilla.”
Pastor Ryan then blessed the equipment, which was stationed at the site of the new Canopy Shade House Village off Coronation Avenue.
Watch the ceremony in full below:
In September, 2024, sargassum buildup on the Island Harbour beach near Vivien Vanterpool Primary School led to mould growth inside the educational facility.
Pupils has to transition to remote learning while the problem was resolved.
