Update on the Kelp Restoration
and Management Plan

Sunday, October 11, 2026
1:30-2:30 PM
Noyo Center for Marine Science Field Station
32430 N. Harbor Drive in Fort Bragg

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department), in close collaboration and with support from the Ocean Protection Council (OPC) and other partners, continues to develop a statewide, adaptive, ecosystem-based Kelp Restoration and Management Plan (KRMP) for giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera, and bull kelp, Nereocystis luetkeana, that will guide the state’s efforts to manage, protect, and restore kelp forests in California waters. A multi-pronged approach, consisting of a Community Working Group (CWG), Science Advisory Committee (SAC), and ongoing Tribal Engagement, is underway to ensure the development of the KRMP is informed by the best available science and community perspectives across the state of California. We will discuss recent kelp action in California, the core components of the KRMP, and the KRMP’s overall development process and opportunities for engagement.

Ocean Aquaculture Panel Discussion:
Red Abalone

Sunday, October 11, 2026
2:30-4:30 PM

Noyo Center for Marine Science Field Station
32430 N. Harbor Drive in Fort Bragg

Dive deep into the topic of regenerative aquaculture with a panel discussion hosted by the Noyo Center.

This interactive panel will explore the role of conservation aquaculture in restoring California’s abalone populations and kelp forests. Following brief presentations and a moderated discussion, participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with scientists through hands-on demonstrations, including abalone ultrasound, and informal conversations.

A tasting of farmed abalone from Cultured Abalone in Santa Barbara will be served together with local beer from North Coast Brewery. Recommended donation of $10 at the door.

Panelists:

Sara E. Boles, PhD; Assistant Project Scientist, Bodega Marine Laboratory, University of California, Davis

Ann Bishop, Hatchery & Research Manager, and Andie Van Horn, Farm-to-Fork Manager, Cultured Abalone Farm

Dr. Dan Sweezey, Director for Oceans and Aquaculture, Kashia Band of Pomo Indians

Homecoming 2026: Ribbon Cutting and Fall Fundraiser

Sunday, October 18, 2026
4:00-5:00 PM VIP Reception (Invite Only)

5:00-7:30 PM Public Festivities

Whale House LaBONEatory
331 Jere Melo Street, Noyo Headlands, Fort Bragg, CA

Join us to celebrate a moment in Mendocino County history as we officially cut the ribbon and welcome the blue whale bones home.

The Whale House LaBONEatory is the first building in the Noyo Center Ocean Science Center campus, where we'll articulate our 73' blue whale skeleton and expand and deepen our marine mammal, marine science, and education programs.

Read the full event details at our Fall Fundraiser page here.