Puget Sound Kelp Forests and Protecting Native Eelgrass Habitat

Join the Koma Kulshan Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society for an in-person presentation from Jeff Whitty and Allie Simpson of the Northwest Straits Commission. Puget Sound kelp provide vital habitat to numerous marine species, fuel food webs, and are important to the lifeways of local cultures. 

However, kelp forests are declining due to cumulative impacts from human and climate-induced stressors. We will explore these amazing underwater forests, the challenges they face, what is being done to conserve and recover them, and how you can help! 

Eelgrass is a flowering plant that provides habitat and foraging for many marine animals. Intact eelgrass protects our shorelines by reducing erosion, dampening wave impacts, and helping keep our waters clear. Unfortunately, this vital habitat is declining in the Puget Sound due to human activity. We’ll showcase the importance of eelgrass meadows, how they are being impacted, what’s being done to protect them, and what you can do.