Kelp Rescue Initiative - Barkley Sound

Restoration Project

Kelp Rescue Initiative - Barkley Sound

Restoration Objective:

Experimental restoration project at 6 sites in Barkley Sound. We are restoring giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) using two sizes of green gravel/cobble and are testing restoration success inside and outside of urchin cages.

Site Selection Criteria:

Six sites were chosed along an exposure gradient within Barkley Sound.

Organisation:

The Kelp Rescue Initiative is a non-profit based at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (BMSC, Bamfield, British Columbia, Canada), developing science-backed solutions to kelp restoration. KRI leads and supports kelp restoration in British Columbia, through rigorous science, innovation, collaboration and by providing education and resources on kelp status, trends and restoration expertise.

Site Observations:

Observation Date

1st Apr 2024 – 25th Jul 2024

Action Summary:

Green gravel (2 sizes) outplanted inside and outside of urchin cages at 6 sites in Barkley Sound. Monitored outplanting success (survival, size, sori production, bleaching etc.) every 6 weeks from April to August. Monitored temperature, light and current at each site.

Lessons Learned:

Urchin cages were not super effective, got tossed around during storms.

Project Outcomes:

NA

Area of Restoration (Ha)

0

Indicator Data: