2010, Aquamarine Power Ltd, Brough Head Wave Farm, Kelp Harvesting

Kelp (Laminaria digitata) are large seaweed and are classified as the order Laminariales. There are about 300 different genera. Some species can be very long and form kelp forests. Forests can develop in shallow water which is rich in nutrients below 20 degrees in temperature. These forests provide a habitat to a wide range of species. Kelp has a wide range of commercial uses from plant fertiliser to food colourings. It is harvested commercially in many areas around the world, including Orkney. The rapid growth rate reduces the impact this harvesting has on the forests. This report discusses some of the practical and environmental issues of clearing the seabed of kelp during the installation of Oyster devices.