The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) is considering deploying specialized equipment to Culebra to help remove the large amounts of sargassum that have accumulated on the island. The situation has caused decomposition of organic material, fish mortality, and discomfort among short-term hostel owners who have been unable to rent their spaces. DRNA Subsecretary Nelson Cruz stated that they have managed the situation responsibly and that Secretary Waldemar Quiles will visit the island to assess the situation and mobilize necessary equipment.
Culebra Mayor Edilberto 'Junito' Romero reported that the most difficult situation is in the Ensenada Honda area, where large amounts of sargassum have entered and begun to decompose. The DRNA currently has four long-arm excavators and two tractors to remove the sargassum, which are distributed across different municipalities. Cruz mentioned that they have been working to address the issue of sargassum affecting boat propulsion systems and have performed rescues in Salinas and Ponce.
They plan to remove the material from Las Croabas in Fajardo this week.