Guardia Civil is taking action against vessels anchored in posidonia meadows

As part of its environmental protection maritime surveillance efforts, the Guardia Civil has discovered and reported multiple vessels that were anchored on Posidonia Meadows in the Bay of Xàbia, in violation of laws pertaining to the preservation of marine ecosystems and species.

On August 30th, officials from the Maritime Service of the Alicante Guardia Civi set up a checkpoint to keep an eye on ships anchored without the use of ecological buoys, also referred to as low-impact buoys.

One of the two vessels discovered during the first operation was anchored right over Posidonia. An administrative sanction was imposed when the infraction was verified using a mirafondos, a bottom-mounted underwater observation equipment. Furthermore, additional infractions were found on this vessel, including the failure to provide the required insurance receipt or the transfer paperwork or rental agreement to the skipper at the time.

In the Posidonia region, four additional boats

Four further yachts were found anchored in the Posidonia area without the use of the ecological buoy during the afternoon of the same day, when inspections in the area proceeded. Eleven reports were filed, four of which specifically dealt with anchoring in Posidonia Meadows, two of which involved not presenting the required insurance receipt, two of which involved not presenting the enabling licence for the operation of recreational vessels, and one of which involved not presenting any dispatch documentation or the vessel’s certificate of seaworthiness.

The officers’ reports have been forwarded to the appropriate authority so that the appropriate sanctions can be processed.

To preserve marine biodiversity and guarantee adherence to environmental conservation laws, the Civil Guard keeps a close eye on the coast of Alicante. In this context, it serves as a reminder to boat owners that anchoring over posidonia meadows may be a major violation of Law 42/2007, of December 13, on Natural Heritage and Biodiversity, which carries fines of between €3,001 and €200,000.

The significance of posidonia in marine ecosystems is also emphasised by the Guardia Civi, since it is crucial for preserving biodiversity, enhancing water quality, and preventing coastline erosion. Its survival is thus directly threatened by inappropriate anchoring, making its protection a top concern for the environment and the law.

Author: Derek Appleton