How much of our reef is a barren?
Reef Check Surveys
Of the 16 sites that Reef Check surveys in Monterey and Carmel Bays; 9 of them are now urchin barrens. The trend is towards more urchins at more sites.
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Solutions
Reef Check has obtained a Special Collection Permit from CDFW to study if culling urchins in varying amounts will result in the return to a giant kelp forest. The monitoring and culling of urchins is open to Reef Check Certified divers. The results of the study will inform a larger effort to clear large areas of McAbee Beach, Lovers Cove, and Coral Street. We are also seeking to increase the bag limit of purple urchins at Del Monte Beach to remove urchins and restore kelp with recreational divers holding fishing licenses.
Current Projects:
Drone Surveys
Urchin Manipulation Study at Lovers #3
Urchin Barren Assessment
