nearshore habitat restoration
salt marsh, eelgrass and kelp
Project Watershed’s Salish Sea North East Vancouver Island Salmon Highway (Nearshore Habitat) Coastal Restoration Plan identifies 70 potential nearshore habitat restoration projects along the east coast of Vancouver Island (between the Oyster River and Annie Creek near Qualicum Bay).
Projects were identified by examining changes in the distribution of eelgrass, salt marsh and kelp habitat using historic and current aerial images and coupling this information with an extensive shore-zone assessment and literature review. The plan will guide future nearshore habitat restoration projects undertaken by Project Watershed and our partnering organizations. This is a living document that will be adapted and added to as new data and information about the identified projects arise.
Coastal Restoration
Eelgrass and Kelp Feature – Spring 2025
Spring is nearing its end and just like on land, this time of year is peak growth season for marine plants. With support from the Aquatic Ecosystems Restoration Fund, Project Watershed has been working on two projects to restore eelgrass habitat in Fanny Bay and kelp habitat near Cape Lazo.
Eelgrass Transplant Tying at Ships Point
We’re looking for volunteers to help prepare eelgrass shoots for transplant as part of our upcoming restoration work near Ships Point.
Eelgrass Update
In the fall our restoration team surveyed the three eelgrass beds which were planted with the help of our volunteers back in June. The beds are looking healthy!