JEFFREYS BAY – On 4 November, Kouga Local Municipality released a statement to clarify misinformation circulating on several social media platforms regarding the recent discolouration and odour observed in the Seekoei Estuary in Jeffreys Bay.
According to the statement, the phenomenon is not sewage, but rather a seasonal algae bloom caused by natural environmental conditions.
“Algae blooms occur when environmental factors such as increased nutrients, warmer temperatures, reduced freshwater inflow, and higher salinity create favourable conditions for rapid algae growth,” the statement said.
“While these blooms are often mistaken for sewage, they are typically triggered by a combination of factors including limited flushing of the estuary, lack of rain, and runoff from surrounding areas.”
The statement further said that as the algae on the water’s surface decomposes, it releases nutrients that feed further algae growth and can produce gases like methane, which is responsible for the foul odour experienced.
Over time, this organic matter settles at the bottom of the estuary, worsening the issue when flushing is limited due to reduced freshwater inflow or the presence of the causeway.
The statement indicated that to minimise the impact on both the environment and the community, the municipality periodically removes accumulated dead matter from the affected areas.
“It is important to note that this is an annual occurrence caused by the factors mentioned above, and not a result of sewage,” the statement said.
“The municipality assures residents that it takes its responsibility towards protecting and maintaining Kouga’s natural environment seriously.”
Residents are encouraged to be active partners in safeguarding local environmental assets.
If anyone observes activities potentially harmful to the estuary, they are urged to take photographs and report these incidents to the Kouga Call Centre at 042 200 2200, 081 760 9183, or after hours at 042 291 0250 for investigation.
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