The seagrass bed is so thick it's blocking the sea, but what's most concerning for residents of Sector A of Torre degli Ulivi is the risk that the seaweed, now in contact with their homes, could start a fire. Nearly two months after the announcement of the extraordinary plan to clean the beaches along the Capoterra coast, funded by the Region after last spring's violent storms, residents of Torre degli Ulivi are once again calling for the municipality's intervention.
The dried-out accumulations of Posidonia oceanica extend for hundreds of meters and, in several places, reach the edge of homes. Added to the marine vegetation are fishing nets, plastic, cans, and other debris carried by storm surges, as well as several syringes found on the beach.
Antonello Tenardi, a longtime resident of the residential area of Capoterra, captures the situation: "We are perfectly aware of the environmental value of Posidonia oceanica, and no one disputes the fundamental role it plays in the marine ecosystem. However, what is present on our coastline today can no longer be considered a normal natural reef, but rather a threat to the safety of citizens."
Among the concerns expressed by residents is the risk associated with the presence of large quantities of dried plant material near homes, especially in light of the numerous fires that have affected various areas of Sardinia in recent weeks.
"Anyone who has known Torre degli Ulivi for decades can't recall a situation like this in the last fifty years," Tenardi explains. "The community, made up of over 800 families between Sector A and Sector B, is asking for at least a minimum level of safety and accessibility. We're not asking for additional beach resorts or tourist services, but simply for the beach to be managed in a way that allows safe access to the sea and eliminates the risk of this material starting a fire."
Mayor Beniamino Garau admits the difficulties of working on a beach as narrow as Torre A: "We need suitable mechanical equipment, large enough to move the seagrass, but capable of navigating within a confined space. Unfortunately, the recent storm has worsened the situation; currently, there isn't enough space to accumulate the seaweed, as happened in the adjacent area. We will work with the condominium to identify a plot of land where we can temporarily store the seagrass. We are working with the Region, the Forestry Corps, and the fire department to find a solution quickly."