The Alaska Legislature's recent meeting highlighted the burgeoning potential of kelp farming in the state, with advocates emphasizing its role as a new industry for local fishermen. During the session, a kelp farming presentation showcased the impressive growth from Alaska's first commercial harvest of 10,000 pounds in 2017 to nearly a million pounds today, produced by four farmers in Kodiak.

The meeting revealed that Alaska currently has 36 kelp farms, with only a fraction of the permitted farming area being utilized. Presenters noted that while oyster farms occupy about 785 acres, kelp farms span over 2,370 acres, indicating significant room for expansion. The discussion underscored the importance of diversifying local fisheries and utilizing existing coastal infrastructure to foster this emerging sector.

The speaker, a former fisherman turned kelp farmer, shared his journey and the motivations behind his shift to kelp farming, highlighting the industry's potential to provide new opportunities for fishermen facing dwindling options. The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and investment in kelp farming, which could transform Alaska's coastal economy and create sustainable livelihoods for its residents.