Mara Lezama Confirms Larger Sargassum Vessel Arrival, Seeks More Federal Funds
Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Governor Mara Lezama confirmed that a larger sargassum collection vessel capable of intercepting the macroalgae in deep waters is expected to arrive in Quintana Roo within three weeks. She also announced she will meet again with President Claudia Sheinbaum on Friday to secure additional federal resources to address the seaweed influx along the coastline.
Lezama said she recently toured beaches in Playa del Carmen and Isla Mujeres, describing them as “divine, spectacular” because sargassum is not affecting all beaches every day.
The governor recalled that last week she presented a project developed with support from the Mexican Navy to the president. After a series of adjustments, they will present it again. “We have nearly 400 million pesos, and this year it will be 200 million. The goal is to tackle sargassum in deep waters with a larger vessel and tugboats,” she said.
Lezama added that authorities are monitoring the sargassum monitoring center to track the volume of seaweed approaching the Quintana Roo coastline and to reinforce beach cleaning efforts.
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
