The kelp forests of Washington State are among the most productive and diverse in the world, supporting a rich ecosystem and thriving human economy. As the manager of nearly six million acres of terrestrial and aquatic land, DNR leads state efforts to ensure these habitats are conserved and protected for future generations.
DNR will achieve this goal using a variety of protection and regeneration tools to achieve this pledge, which will be determined through ongoing development of Washington’s Statewide Kelp Forest and Eelgrass Meadow Health and Conservation Plan. This plan, led by DNR and codified in law in 2022, commits to the conservation and protection of at least 10,000 acres of kelp forest and eelgrass meadow habitat within Washington by 2040.
