Kelp Monitoring – Kayak and snorkel survey
Bull kelp are large brown algae that emerge each spring, growing up to 40 meters and creating vibrant underwater forests. Much like terrestrial forests, kelp forests provide a range of vital benefits to fish, marine invertebrates, birds, and other wildlife by offering structure, food, and shelter. They are also important cultural species long valued by indigenous cultures and helpful to all of us. Yet, in Puget Sound, especially south and central Puget Sound where Vashon is located, kelp forest are declining precipitously.
Join us to monitor the natural kelp beds around the island to help us better understand and track their health. We will conduct a kayak-based survey to document the size and shape of the kelp bed by tracing its perimeter, taking depth and temperature measurements, and capturing photos. We will also get in the water and complete a snorkel survey to document the life living below the surface.