The Florida coast was greeted by a belt of sargassum less than a week ago. This happens every year but this year has already broken records. and it’s still not peak season.
Dr. Chuanmin Hu said, “It has already caused a lot problems for the local people in terms of tourism, economy, corals, coral reefs and seagrass. It also affects people.”
Dr. Hu is Professor of Oceanography, University of South Florida. He says that the algal belt in question is not a new invention.
The belt was originally found in the Atlantic Ocean’s Sargasso sea. In 2011, experts first noticed an increase of seaweed blobs washing ashore on Florida beaches.
In March, 13 million metric tonnes were recorded in the belt, which is the highest ever for that month.
Dr. Hu pointed out that despite this staggering figure, the belt only covers 0.1% of ocean’s surface.
This amount is spread out over the Tropical Atlantic. The amount is spread out over the Tropical Atlantic. This is a large area. Dr. Hu stated that the area is 5 million kilometers.
The summer months are when algae is most abundant in Florida. Many places in Florida are already seeing algae on their shores.
Broward County collected 282 yards of algae last year. They have collected 920 feet so far this year compared to the same time last year.
Since March, has collected about 5,000 cubic yard in Miami-Dade.
Seaweed is visible in some parts of the Panhandle since the beginning of April. This raises the question whether we can prevent it from washing up on the shore.
“It’s possible. Dr. Hu explained that it’s a matter of cost versus benefit.
Miami-Dade County paid $3.9 million to remove the seaweed.
Broward County composts all of its waste and saves nearly $350,000 per year. Local government and tourism are still responsible for the financial burden.
Scientists like Dr. Hu try to find out why it’s growing more.
“Seaweed, like other plants, requires light, nutrients and the correct temperature for it to grow. All these conditions exist in the Tropical Atlantic Ocean. Why is there an increase in the last few years? Many factors are involved. “No one can pinpoint just one factor. You know, that’s the killer.”
While it’s difficult to predict what will happen next, scientists know that Florida’s pattern of algae growth is likely to continue.
“This is a new normal in comparison to ten year ago and people must be prepared.”
Latest updates on Sargassum Seaweed from our Facebook group community.
Sargassum Update Florida is a FB Group with locals in Florida or visitors who post updates about the situation along Florida’s coast.
