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Aquatic plants

Last updated on May 15, 2024

British Columbia has more than 600 species of marine aquatic plants including the greatest diversity of kelps found anywhere in the world. Marine aquatic plants are culturally, ecologically, and economically valued coastal resources. 

The B.C. Aquatic Plant Program regulates and licences the culture and harvest of aquatic plants for food, research, herbal remedies, cosmetics, medical uses, and as a fertilizer for gardens.

Aquatic Plants in the marine environment are shared resources that are managed to balance the environmental and economic benefits that aquatic plants provide. The Province has the responsibility for the regulation and licensing of the wild harvest and culture of aquatic plants in British Columbia (B.C.) under the Fish and Seafood Act and the Fish and Seafood Licensing Regulation.

Information on application fees, harvesting requirements, terms and conditions on a licence, record-keeping requirements, and royalty fees are outlined in the Fish and Seafood Licensing Regulation.

Explore this section for more information about wild aquatic plant harvesting, aquatic plant culturing, and aquatic plant management.

Intertidal algal diversity, Muir Creek

 

 

 

All aquatic plants to be distributed to the public for human consumption must be processed at a licensed processing plant.

Consultations with First Nations is an important part of all land and resource decision-making. Proponents are strongly encouraged to develop respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with First Nations.

The Province is a member of the Marine Plan Partnership (MaPP), a collaborative marine plan partnership for the North Pacific Coast between 17 First Nations and the Government of the Province of British Columbia. In collaboration with MaPP, many Nations’ Coastal Guardian Watchmen teams are actively monitoring canopy kelp bed densities, cover and biomass across their territories. 

Contact information

For information about wild aquatic plant harvesting or cultured seaweed:


AquaticPlants.Courtenay@gov.bc.ca