This spring we concluded a year-long program in the Vinalhaven School, primarily focused on kelp aquaculture. These efforts included growing kelp from spores in classroom tanks and experimenting with kelp growth and seaweed product design. The fall programming involved a trip to Hurricane to deploy the kelp in Penobscot Bay, and students came back to Hurricane in the spring to harvest their kelp. All year, we worked with the middle and high school science teachers to incorporate the kelp into the science curriculum, and the Vinalhaven Land Trust provided financial and logistical support.
These 7th grade kelp experts take a moment to enjoy the view from Sunset Rock.
To wrap up the year-long effort, students presented their kelp projects and products as part of the school’s Community Kelp Night in May. Check out the Island Institute’s coverage of Kelp Night and learn more about our work with the Vinalhaven school and community!
Data collection time! Students measure the length of a kelp blade from our aquaculture site.
