Mossel Bay’s Santos, De Bakke, Hartenbos and Little Brak River beaches once again received their Blue Flags, which augurs well for the local tourism industry and the local economy.
In a press release, the Mossel Bay Municipality mentioned that Blue Flag status was first awarded to Hartenbos and Santos in 2009, while De Bakke and Little Brak River followed in 2012 and 2013, respectively.
"The municipality will operate the four beaches as Blue Flag beaches from 09:00 to 17:00 daily in December 2014 and January 2015, and possibly also over the Easter weekend in 2015. Beaches are normally operated as Blue Flag beaches for limited periods of time because of the cost and logistical requirements," the municipality said.
Blue Flag is an international award given to beaches that meet strict criteria in terms of cleanliness, water- and sand quality, as well as environmental education and management.
The criteria is set by the international coordinators of the Blue Flag campaign in Europe, namely the Foundation for Environmental Education. In South Africa it is headed by the Wildlife Education Society of South Africa (Wessa).
More than 40 countries are currently part of the programme with more than 4 000 Blue Flag beaches.
Hartenbos beach is a Blue Flag beach once again this year. Photos: Tersia Marais
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