Informational and Inspirational
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Monday, December 2, 2013
Passion and Action
Think about what you can do...
The restoration projects being presented is a long and tedious one. It requires the passion and dedication of caring individuals as well as the support of the communities close to the affected areas. Within the article “Beach pollution at third-highest in 22 years” presented by the LA Times address details of the report stating that, “[…]the root cause and build more "green infrastructure" to absorb polluted runoff”. Some techniques for restoration being practiced are that of rain-capturing barrels, porous pavement for filtering of water, and facilities to redirect and clean runoff water before it reaches the ocean. All these projects have the same intentions of keeping the ocean water clean of runoff contaminants.
Why??
Importance in the Environment
Over the years since air and water pollution have been on the rise, kelp has taken a very large setback as California waters are known for being the most contaminated and polluted. (Barboza, LA Times) The forests as a whole have deteriorated and diminished because of drastic changes to the environment’s climate and increased pollutants in the ocean water caused by massive amounts of runoff. “Sludge, silt or sewage dumped near kelp forests can cover and destroy the kelp, even in their microscopic stage.” (Conservation, Monterey Bay Aquarium) Being home to many sea creatures and the base to the entire underwater ecosystem the damage of just some portions affects the whole greatly; every square inch of kelp is essential. Animals that find themselves reliant upon the kelp forest for nutrients or shelter find their lives to be in danger or in seriously unhealthy situations with the wuthering away of their survival source.
History of Kelp
Guiding the Way...
Kelp has developed an identity of having guided ancient civilizations to the California Coast through a passage termed the “kelp highway”. It travels from Japan all the way across the Bering Strait to Alaska, only to continue down the California coast and Mexico. (Carey, LiveScience) The Giant Kelp is a signature staple to California lifestyle and culture. As a main attraction for divers, tourists, and scientists due to its beauty and uniqueness, coastal communities have become reliant on it for its attraction. It also demonstrates an important environmental aspect given that the kelp forest provides such a large supply of oxygen. With the threat of global climate change approaching and the kelp forests' abilities to improve the environments climate with its restoration, its renewal is a vital concern and priority.
What is Kelp?
The Background Information
The kelp structure is perfect for holding it to the sea floor, while at the same time allowing enough buoyancy to bring the leaves to the surface. This key feature is what generates the plants photosynthetic nature to take place, as the leaves are able to reach the rays of sun.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)