Sargassum is a genus of large brown seaweed that floats in island-like mats on the water’s surface, and is a crucial habitat for many different species.
Because of this, you are not allowed to remove seaweed that has not washed ashore. At certain times of the year when it does wash ashore, it gives off a foul smell as it dries. Usually, a nor’wester will blow through and take it out to sea again, but sometimes it builds up so much that it must be removed.
If doing this yourself, be sure to remove it in the least intrusive way (hand raking) and be conscious of wildlife, especially during turtle nesting season (May-November). Care must be taken not to destabilise the beach and cause erosion. Using machinery to remove sargassum is not advised due to the environmental risks, but if it is deemed necessary, the Department of Environment (DoE) must grant approval beforehand. It is essential that you use the same route on and off the beach when using machinery to prevent further destruction.
More on the Environment
Being Green
Advice on how to be green in the Cayman Islands - recycling locations, sustainable food choices, solar power, 'greener' swimming pools and electric vehicles.
Cayman's Green Community
There are various ways you can become actively involved in preserving and protecting the local environment of the Cayman Islands.
