- FARMERS ADVISED NOT TO USE THE SARGASSUM SEAWEED
On Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar spoke about the recent substantial increase of sargassum seaweed impacting coastlines throughout St Vincent.
Caesar highlighted the importance of a coordinated regional approach, pointing out that SVG is collaborating with OECS member states to exchange human resources and strategies in addressing this ongoing challenge.
The minister disclosed that although research has investigated the possible application of sargassum as fertiliser, results show the presence of heavy metals, rendering it unsafe for agricultural purposes at this time.
“Cabinet discussions will focus on exploring immediate actions, especially to tackle build-ups in locations such as the Owia Fisheries Centre.”
On Tuesday, Chief Fisheries Officer Mrs. Jennifer Cruickshank Howard emphasised a regional UNDP project that encompasses multiple Caribbean nations, aimed at supplying equipment such as tractors and barrier booms for the management of seaweed.
Cruickshank Howard highlighted that Owia continues to be one of the fishing communities most consistently impacted and committed to ongoing support for fishers nationwide.
Fisheries Officer Chimell Martin elaborated that sargassum seaweed has a dual impact, acting as a nursery for marine life while also presenting risks, including navigational hazards.
Local entrepreneurs were urged by officials to explore the potential of sargassum seaweed as a renewable resource, highlighting that other countries have started to assess its commercial viability.
