Illegal breakwater at Marathonisi demolished
The breakwater was an underwater structure made of stones, rods, and steal mesh, measuring 31.5 metres long, 81 centimetres wide, and 75 centimetres high, which had been erected without a permit – not to mention without the required oceanographic study (currents, etc.) – which had been discovered by the ARCHELON research team together with the security guard at the National Marine Park during their first morning patrol of the nesting beach on 19 June 2011.
The Marathonisi nesting beach primarily produces male hatchlings. Therefore, even though the beach accounts for only 9% of the nests on Zakynthos, the fact that itʼs the only place where male hatchlings are produced, the beach is recognized to be an important habitat absolutely essential for the survival of Caretta caretta sea turtles in the Mediterranean. In view of the problems caused by climate change, this beach is exceptionally important for the survival of the species.
The location of the illegal breakwater presented a danger to the ecological profile of the nesting beach. In fact, during the 2011 nesting period, there was a noticeable reduction in the amount of sand deposited on the beach compared with previous years. The illegal underwater structure disrupted the natural flow of sand deposits on the main beach, and in a short time it would have eroded away, a situation which warranted the breakwaterʼs immediate demolition and removal.
This collaborative action provides an encouraging message for the future. The cityʼs mechanism for inspecting and evaluating the situation produced immediate results, with each agency doing its part completely and efficiently to bring about the quickest possible demolition of the structure and the protection of this important habitat. (S.T.)
Translation by Joanne Stournara
photos by: ARCHELON/ Nick Davies
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