Aerial surveys of bull kelp (Nereocystis luetkeana) along the Oregon coast in 2022 and 2024: Abundance, distribution, and change since 2010, Science Bulletin 2026-02

Identification Information

Citation

Originator: Marion S. and A. Merems

Publish Date: 2026

Online Link: https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/DataClearinghouse/default.aspx?p=202&XMLname=42974.xml

BPA Project #:

Contact Information

Agency: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Name: Scott Marion

Job Position: Marine Habitat Project Leader

Telephone: 5418199068

E-Mail Address: Scott.R.Marion@odfw.oregon.gov

Description

Abstract: Fixed-wing aircraft were used to conduct aerial imaging surveys of the Oregon coast and offshore reefs between the Oregon-California border and the vicinity of Lincoln City in the fall of 2022 and 2024. The floating bull kelp canopy visible in the multispectral (four-band) 0.23 m resolution imagery was classified as either surface kelp or subsurface kelp. Kelp canopy area totals were summarized within 5-km segments of the coast, and compared with the results of a similar survey conducted in 2010 along the south coast where the bulk of Oregon’s bull kelp is found.

Purpose: The report analyzes the change in abundance and distribution of floating bull kelp canopy between 2010 and 2024. It also provides Appendix maps showing the location and extent of the kelp canopy, and comparing kelp distribution among years.

Time Period of Content: 2010 - 2024

Geographic Extent: Oregon coast between the California border and the vicinity of Depoe Bay

Status: Final

Use Constraints:

Format: PDF and shapefiles

Data Quality Information

Lineage-Source:

Data Information

No data information was supplied.

Entity and Attribute Information

Attributes Description: Field attribute information is available in the attached file(s).

Is a physical copy maintained for reference at Headquarters? Unknown