Harbours in the Solent at risk from seaweed crisis
Aug 24th, 2009
One of the most popular yachting areas in Britain is at risk from an unprecedented spread of seaweed.According to the Environmental Agency, sewage and fertilisers from agricultural land is to blame for hundreds of acres of mudflats and waterways being coated with thick layers of floating algae.
The seaweed has grown to such an extent that wildlife and yachts are being deeply affected, the agency said.
Worthing in West Sussex, Langstone harbour and areas around the Isle of Wight are among the worst affected.
Dave Lowthion, marine team leader at the Environment Agency, told the Guardian: "[Seaweed] growth is promoted by excess nutrients, mainly nitrogen, nitrates and ammonia.
"We know that the two key sources to this are nitrogen in sewage discharges and nitrates run-off from agriculture into rivers and harbours."
It is believed that the agency is studying the effects of the weed to come up with a solution.
The Solent has long been linked to yachting in Britain and is one of the most popular areas for yacht charters.
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Come on Chris… when’s the next one?"
Come on Chris… when’s the next one?"
