Many thanks to Damieon Phillips, Operations Harbourmaster for Ventnor Haven, for sending through this report from the Seaweed Collection Day that took place yesterday. Ed
I knew the first removal of weed would be the smelly one because I had to clean the bottom of the slipway first, so to drop the trailer there on the second run.
I also knew that it is a big job due to the amount of weed that comes in each day. We wanted more on the probation service, but as a experiment, it proved it can work well.
All in all around 30 tonnes of seaweed was removed. Seven pick-up truck loads, a van and 22 cars taking around two to five bags each. Several cars did come back for more.
I want to thank the probation service and all the public who came and took some away, as well as the local farmer for the major role that he played with the removal.
I would also like to add that in the future we will have the local farmer down to take weed as it comes in and settles, this will reduce the amount of weed and, in turn, reduce the smell.
This will happen at the best times of tides and when its less disruptive to Holiday makers, local businesses, home owners and the general public.
The probation service will be on hand too as a ongoing concern. Finally I would like to say any of the general public who wish to come down anytime during my hours of work (10am until 5pm) and tides being right then I will gladly fill their bags for them.
Image: Ventnor Haven by Ventlindown
