Checking on the Kelp Beds

Last year the Nile Creek Enhancement Society (NCES) undertook a little experiment. They planted kelp where there used to be expansive beds, but where it no longer exists. This year I was invited along as they went out to check on the progress of the new plants. Aboard the boat;
a skipper, an assortment of member/volunteers, some NCES Directors and a diver. I almost want to start to sing " 5 passengers set sail that day for a 3 hour tour, a 3 hour tour....


We departed from Deep Bay and headed south along the coast to the first bed. Buoys mark the place where the concrete blocks and "seeded" ropes were planted and yes the kelp is flourishing!
Kelp provides a habitat for fish and other invertebrates, part of a healthy ocean and ecosystem.



Difficult to see much from the surface. The Bull Kelp is in 12-15 feet of water at low tide and would probably not be visible at high tide. The diver assures us that it is all looking good so off we go to Hornby Island and the site of the second bed. The pics below tell the story. Success!


Leaving Hornby Island headed back to Deep Bay we pass the rocky shores of Denman Island and the Lightstation on Chrome Island. I have often photographed this lighthouse from Deep Bay, so what a treat to see it close up.






Apologies if I drag out the light house. It's too hard to choose.... fast forward if you must.


It's a very small island with the most incredible rock faces.




Leaving Chrome Island we head for Deep Bay and home. Poor me spending a sunny afternoon out cruising the islands. This volunteer stuff is tough :-)