Putting plans into action: Kelp Conservation and Recovery in Washington

Vibrant kelp forests are vital to the health of the Salish Sea. The Puget Sound Kelp Conservation and Recovery Plan (Kelp Plan) provides a research and management framework for coordinated action to improve understanding of kelp forest population changes and declines, while also working to implement and strengthen recovery and protective measures. Since the Kelp Plan's release in 2020, it has guided tangible collaborative action across multiple partners. Highlights and ongoing actions since the release of the Kelp plan include: 1) a successful Washington State legislative request to fund kelp research and Kelp Plan coordination; 2) an assessment to understand current practices and regulations to protect kelp that will connect best available science and guidance for the needs of practitioners and regulators; and 3) research coordination and communications. This presentation provides an overview of the Kelp Plan strategic goals, the importance of partner coordination to maintain momentum and engagement, examples of progress in advancing the Kelp Plan, and critical next steps to protect and restore kelp within the Salish Sea.