The buildup of seaweed at Cas En Bas beach, Gros Islet is affecting both businesses and residents in the area. Not only is it taking over the entire beach, but it is also creating a bad stench.
St. Lucia News Online (SNO) was given a tour of the area on Saturday, August 11 by concerned residents and business owners, who vented their frustration.
“The seaweed is hurting my vending business,” said Robert Eugene, a beach vendor.
Eugene said the seaweed has caused a disruption in regular business activity, which has resulted in less guests and residents frequenting the beach.
Staff of the 14 61 Degree Bar at Cotton Bay Resort told SNO that the seaweed is also affecting the hotel’s operation. Many guests have complained about the buildup of seaweed and as a result are shuttled to another beach for excursions, at the hotel’s expense.
Meanwhile, an excursionist from the International Pony Club, who chose to remain anonymous, told SNO that it is also affecting the club’s business.
“The seaweed is messed up; it’s affecting us and our businesses out here as we do horseback riding both on the shores and in the water. The funny thing is nature taking its course, but for how long, that we don’t know, because it’s more than a month we are trying to cope with it,” he said.
The excursionist explained that good Samaritans and other paid personnel were trying to haul truck loads of the seaweed off the sea shore, but it was pointless.
“The weed piles up on the shore much faster than the fellas can load the trucks because the waves bring them in much faster,” the source added.
For well over six weeks there has been a buildup of seaweed along the sea shores of various parts of the island. This issue is far from being resolved as there is a daily buildup.
Nevertheless, business owners and residents of Cas En Bas beach are calling on government to provide some assistance.
