Hotels Agree to Install Sargassum Barrier at Mahahual

Anti-sargassum barrier deployed along Mahahual beach in Quintana Roo

Mahahual, Quintana Roo — Hotel industry leaders and government officials have agreed to install 1,750 meters of anti-sargassum barriers and deploy specialized collection vessels to protect Mahahual beach from heavy seaweed landings.

The plan, reached with the federal government and the Quintana Roo state government, aims to expand containment infrastructure along the Costa Maya and reduce the environmental and economic damage caused by the algae. It will cover northern and southern stretches of the coastline that had remained unprotected.

Key measures

  • Containment infrastructure: 1,750 meters of additional barriers to protect vulnerable beachfront properties.
  • Offshore collection: shallow-draft sargassum vessels to operate in shallow water without damaging the ecosystem.
  • Technical equipment: specialized pumps for transferring biomass in open water.

Business leaders said the actions are part of a broader plan backed by an initial national fund of 800 million pesos for purchasing vessels and barriers. The overall program is projected to receive more than 2.6 billion pesos for implementation between 2026 and 2027.

The hotel association said it will maintain technical oversight to ensure equipment arrives in the Costa Maya on schedule.

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By Ana Reyes

Ana Reyes covers environmental policy, conservation initiatives, infrastructure projects, and political developments across the Yucatán Peninsula for Riviera Maya News & Events. She reports on issues from sargassum management and reef conservation to the Maya Train, coastal development, and state and federal policy affecting Quintana Roo and the broader peninsula.Ana has covered environmental and political news since 2023, tracking key developments in Mexico's environmental regulations, coral reef protection, coastal zone management, and the intersection of tourism development with conservation efforts. Her reporting spans from Cancun's hotel zone to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and the culturally significant regions of the Yucatán interior.Ana is fluent in English and Spanish, and draws from a wide range of sources including government environmental agencies, conservation organizations, academic researchers, and local community leaders to provide balanced, well-sourced coverage. She is particularly focused on how environmental policy decisions affect the daily lives of residents and the long-term sustainability of the region.For story tips: ana@rivieramayanews.mx