Kelp Ecosystem in Big Sur Linked to Local Livelihoods and Global Economy
What happened
Giant kelp, a brown algae found in cool near-shore waters, has been sighted off Big Sur and in the bay. Reports detail that kelp forests provide sheltered habitat for hundreds of species, including 3,000 sea otters, and help dampen ocean swells that erode coastlines. David Helvarg’s book, “Forest of the Sea,” makes a case for preserving these kelp forests.
Why it matters
Kelp contributes as much as $500 billion to the world economy and serves as a resource for products like toothpaste and ice cream. Furthermore, it absorbs excess carbon generated by climate change, underscoring its role in ocean health.
Who's involved
- David HelvargJournalist who authored a book advocating for kelp preservation
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Fort BraggSpeculative
Local livelihoods in Fort Bragg could see changes in revenue due to the health of the marine ecosystem.
- Big SurSpeculative
Coastal areas in Big Sur could see increased costs related to erosion if kelp forests are lost.
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The entities involved
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Fort Bragg
city in Mendocino County, California, United States
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Big Sur
region in Monterey County, California, United States
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Mendocino County
county in northwestern California, United States
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