KELP IS ON THE WAY! is a prerecorded panel discussion with New York State Assemblyman Fred Thiele, prime sponsor of the “Kelp Bill”; Peter Topping, Peconic Baykeeper; Sean Barrett, Montauk Seaweed Supply Company; and Dr. Deborah Aller, Agricultural Stewardship Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County
To keep you up to date, we want you to know that on December 7, 2021 Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I-Sag Harbor) announced that legislation he sponsors with Senator Kaminsky (A.7547-A/S.6532-A) allowing kelp cultivation in underwater lands at Gardiner’s Bay and Peconic Bays was signed into law by Governor Hochul.
This new law will promote kelp aquaculture. Kelp, which is native to New York waters, plays an important role in the fight to restore the health of our waterways. Kelp also serves as a natural habitat for fish and shellfish in our state’s waters. The cultivation of kelp is a growing industry with significant economic, health, and environmental benefits. As New York continues to fight climate change and nitrogen pollution, sustainable kelp farming can provide substantial environmental benefits for the state. In addition to the environmental benefits, this new law will also create jobs for our maritime businesses.
Assemblyman Thiele stated, “I have pursued the enactment of this legislation for years as studies have highlighted the benefits of kelp in removing nitrogen from our waters. The cultivation of this environmental and economically viable product will promote a growing industry that will help restore water quality and fish habitats on the East End while creating jobs for our traditional maritime businesses. I am excited that New York will now join other states that have already established kelp and commercial seaweed aquaculture programs. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this bill into law.”
We’d like you to know that New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (4th District), a SOFO Board Member, was a cosponsor of this bill.
