The Cowichan Valley Naturalists are kicking off 2023 with a free Zoom presentation on kelp.
On Jan. 9 starting at 9:30 a.m. Andrew Lang Wong of Ocean Wise will present “Help from Kelp”.
Kelp forests cover five times more ocean than coral reefs, forming the foundations of critical coastal ecosystems, drawing down carbon, and creating numerous benefits to the surrounding ocean, says a press release for the presentation.
“Alarmingly, these forests are facing rapid declines around the world,” the release reads. “Learn what we can do to help the kelp, and how kelp can help shape our future in a rapidly changing climate!”
Lang Wong grew up camping, snorkeling, and scanning the horizon for whales along the south coast of British Columbia, according to the release. He studied Global Resource Systems at the University of British Columbia with a focus on sustainable food systems.
Combining his passion for the ocean with his knowledge of food systems, he is currently working on Ocean Wise’s Seaforestation initiative, which aims to responsibly expand the protection, restoration, and cultivation of seaweed.
For the Zoom link, email cvns@naturecowichan.net.