Coleman said the consequences of losing kelp forests include shoreline erosion, a decline of water quality and the decrease of the wild salmon population, since the fish rely on kelp forests for survival.

As scientists, Bisgrove said witnessing what’s going on in the world creates an urgency to save as many kelp species as possible by gathering their seeds while they’re still alive.

“We have the technique,” said Bisgrove. “What we need to do now is start collecting the populations that are still there before they disappear.”

Bisgrove’s team also sees the biobank as part of the solution to restore the forests.

“Once we established our collection of different species, we’d be able to supply material to farmers, and community-based groups and other parties that are interested in restoring kelp,” said Bisgrove, adding that scientists can also use these resources for research.

Although the team has the cryopreservation technique ready, it is also looking for funding to secure a facility for the biobank.

Bisgrove said they are currently storing samples in the university’s lab.

Source: B.C. news: Technique to restore kelp forests | CTV News