On a cloudy Tuesday in July, divers Mitch Johnson and Sean Taylor Simmy prepared to explore the Pacific kelp forests off Rancho Palos Verdes south of Los Angeles. These crucial ecosystems have significantly diminished—by 80% over two decades—due to warm water temperatures, an explosion of sea urchins, pollution, and overfishing. However, recent efforts led by scientists and organizations like the Bay Foundation have sparked a revival, using divers to manage the sea urchin population, which has historically devastated kelp.
The divers, armed with cameras and measuring tools, aim to assess the current health of the kelp forest. Over the past 13 years, the Bay Foundation has logged over 15,500 hours underwater, successfully eliminating 5.8 million sea urchins and restoring more than 80 acres of kelp. This underwater ecosystem is vital, supporting over 800 marine species and playing a crucial role in carbon absorption and coastal protection.
Initially, the seabed was overrun with sea urchins, exacerbated by historical events like the near extinction of sea otters and pollution. The Bay Foundation enlisted divers, volunteers, and even commercial fishermen to facilitate recovery without harming thriving sea urchin populations necessary for local fishermen.
As divers observed regenerative growth and increased fish populations, they confirmed that the kelp was rebounding naturally. However, challenges persist, notably pockets of uncontrolled sea urchin populations. Despite the ongoing risks from climate change and pollution, indicators show restored kelp sites have yielded healthier marine life and improved water quality.
The project serves as a potential model for kelp restoration initiatives worldwide, highlighting that with continued effort, these vital underwater forests can recover and thrive.
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