Reviving California’s Kelp Forests, One Dive at a Time

The article discusses the efforts to revive California's kelp forests, which have been devastated by the overpopulation of sea urchins. Scientists, divers, and volunteers are working together to remove the urchins from the ocean, allowing the kelp to regrow and thrive. The kelp forests, once vibrant ecosystems that supported a diverse array of marine life, have been in decline for years due to the unchecked growth of sea urchin populations. This has led to the creation of "urchin barrens," areas where the kelp has been completely wiped out, leaving behind a barren landscape. To combat this issue, teams are physically removing the urchins from the ocean, one cove at a time. This labor-intensive process is a crucial step in reviving the kelp forests and restoring the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem. The article highlights the dedication and collaborative efforts of the scientists, divers, and volunteers who are working to save this important natural resource.