Green Haifa • A huge mass of algae is flooding Bat Galim Beach

In recent days, I have been monitoring an unusual accumulation of algae on Bat Galim Beach in Haifa. Although this is a well-known natural phenomenon that occurs almost every year, according to the data I have, this year the amount of algae is greater than usual and they remain on the beach for a longer time. As of today, a large mass of algae has accumulated on parts of the beach, reaching a height of about ten meters in some places.

"Dead Man's Finger" and another line of algae

The most prominent seaweed is the codium, sometimes called "dead man's finger" due to its unique shape. Along with it, other types of seaweed can also be found on the beach, including sargassum, abalone, oleander, and other seaweeds, mixed together and in the sand.

The algae themselves are part of the natural system of the sea, but when they accumulate in large quantities on an active beach, the result becomes a real hazard for the public.

Smell, flies and an unpleasant feeling on the beach

After the algae are released from the sea and left in the sun for several days, they begin to dry, bleach, and decompose. This process can produce an unpleasant odor, and the organic matter attracts flies and small animals that feed on it.

Beyond the smell and sight, entering the water also becomes less pleasant. It is difficult to walk through thick layers of algae, and you can't always see what you are stepping on.

After drying, some of the algae decompose and return to the sea, where they serve, among other things, as part of the marine biological system. Other parts sink into the sand, and then the feeling while walking on the beach can be reminiscent of walking on a kind of soft mattress.

Why Bat Galim?

Bat Galim Beach has functioned for years as an area where algae that drifts with the currents accumulate. The topographic structure of the beach and the movement of the water mean that natural material that comes from the sea can collect in this area.

The phenomenon is not new, but the types and amounts of algae vary from year to year. Winter, spring, and warm summers affect the development of algae, and this year it appears that conditions have led to a more significant and sustained accumulation.
Bathers at the beach have also said in recent days that the amount is excessive and makes it difficult to stay and bathe.

A natural phenomenon, but a beach needs to respond to it

It is important to emphasize that algae are a natural asset, and therefore cannot simply be removed from the beach without proper consideration and permits. Most years this is a relatively short event, but this year I estimate that additional accumulations may still reach the beach.

From a health perspective, the algae themselves are not supposed to pose a danger to bathers, and the main problem is the discomfort, the smell, and the damage to the aesthetics of the beach.

When a large amount of organic matter accumulates and an unusual odor is created, it is right that the authorities also test the water quality. Any such test is important and gives the public confidence that bathing is safe.

We may have to get used to the phenomenon.

One could also say that there is some comfort in the fact that it is algae and not jellyfish. In addition, Bat Galim has the advantage of relatively good water exchange compared to other areas along the Haifa coast, thanks to the local structure of the coastline.

But if the current trend continues, large algae blooms may become a more common part of our summers.

It is a natural phenomenon, but when it reaches such a force on an urban beach crowded with bathers, it can no longer be treated as just a natural phenomenon. This year, more than in previous years, it is time to examine how it can be dealt with in an orderly manner, while preserving the values ​​of nature and the quality of the bathing experience.