Neptune Terminals collaborates with UBC on bull kelp restoration project in Burrard Inlet

Neptune Terminals, in partnership with the University of British Columbia (UBC), is spearheading a critical research project focusing on bull kelp restoration and resilience in Burrard Inlet.

Led by UBC, with support from Dynamic Ocean Consulting, the Bull Kelp Restoration (BKR) Program is solely funded by Neptune. The project aims to preserve the terminal’s water lots and crucial ecosystem components, demonstrating Neptune's commitment to protecting and ensuring the preservation and improvement of marine ecosystems for future generations.

Bull kelp, an iconic species native to Burrard Inlet, plays a vital role in the marine habitat, providing shelter for various marine species, including juvenile salmon. Despite its historical presence, bull kelp populations have faced decline, prompting the need for restoration efforts.

The BKR Program employs innovative techniques, including transplanting bull kelp within Neptune's water lots and cultivating it in laboratory settings for reintroduction. Initial findings are encouraging, with young bull kelp plants successfully introduced and showing high survival rates after six weeks in Neptune's water lots.

Moving forward, the team will continue assessing field success and exploring strategies to enhance climate resiliency among bull kelp populations. Neptune also plans to extend the project to the Lynn Creek Estuary, aiming to establish sustainable bull kelp populations using similar methods.