Home / Environment / Norway's Underwater Forests Reborn by Citizen Heroes
Norway's Underwater Forests Reborn by Citizen Heroes
9 Sep
Summary
- Nearly 100,000 sea urchins removed by 500 volunteers.
- Kelp forests are returning, creating nurseries for fish.
- Community action reverses damage to underwater ecosystems.
Almost 500 volunteers in northern Norway have dedicated over 20,000 minutes underwater to remove nearly 100,000 sea urchins, successfully restoring kelp forests. This initiative, organized by Rissa Citizen Science, took place at three coastal sites between April 2024 and May 2026.
The sustained removal of sea urchins has led to visible ecological recovery. At Sørsjetéen, kelp and seaweeds have recolonized a 200-meter jetty. Similar regeneration is occurring at Øksfjord and Telegrafbukta, transforming previously barren seabeds.
These returning kelp forests are crucial for marine biodiversity. They provide essential nursery habitats for fish and support fisheries, while also acting as carbon sinks. This project highlights how community engagement can effectively reverse damage to Norway's vital underwater ecosystems.
Citizen scientists are also actively involved in monitoring urchin populations and seaweed regrowth. An Urchin Density Challenge has engaged over 250 users globally in analyzing underwater images, contributing to long-term restoration efforts.
