Kelp Survey March 2025

A great collaborative team of dedicated surveyors - Binky Durran, Barry Pound and Sophia Hetherington from the GBMG, and Jane Phillips and Jo Hollah from Wild Roseland Marine Group.

We surveyed four 1m square quadrats at Porthcurnick Beach, at very low tide on Sunday 30 March. We counted a total of 77 kelp plants, which were mostly oarweed kelp (Laminaria digitata), but there were also a couple of plants of Furbellows kelp (Sacchaorhiza polyschides). The largest plant was over 2 metres long. All looked very healthy.

The results, together with photos, were sent to the British Museum of Natural History who are coordinating around 500 survey locations using citizen scientists like ourselves around the British coastline to ascertain the health and status of British kelp forests. The survey is a collaborative effort involving coastal enthusiasts, researchers, and organizations to promote healthier and more resilient coastlines across Britain.

Community science for healthy coasts | Natural History Museum