Investigating key questions about seaweed seed production in support of optimizing seaweed nursery parameters and innovating new methods of seed production to support the growth of the seaweed sector in British Columbia.
Project Dates: April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2029
Funding Amount: $400,000
Number of Student Researchers: 1
Project Summary
North Island College's Centre for Applied Research, Technology and Innovation (CARTI) received support from the BC Knowledge Development Fund and the Canada Foundation for Innovation to purchase a Seaweed Bioreactor from Victoria-based Industrial Plankton. The bioreactor will allow CARTI to further support the growing seaweed sector in BC with research and innovation efforts. This equipment enables predictable and continuous seed supply, improved quality control, increased yields, and new efficiencies in seaweed seed production.
The bioreactor and associated research projects will develop methods to scale up seed production and provide region-specific batches of seaweed seed, ensuring genetic diversity and complying with regulations. Innovations throughout the cultivation process will be explored, promoting more sustainable practices. Another crucial aspect of the project is developing sustainable and cost-effective methods for kelp habitat restoration.
This project will have significant impact on the Canadian seaweed sector by addressing industry needs, promoting innovation, and fostering economic growth while positioning Canada as an innovator in this blue economy sector that is well-positioned to have global impact.
Research Team
Allison Byrne, Researcher
Allison Byrne (Allie) is a researcher in NIC’s Centre for Applied Research, Technology and Innovation where her focus is applied aquaculture research. Most of her work involves field-based seaweed and shellfish research projects that engage local industry partners and NIC students. Allie has an MSc in Geography from the University of Victoria.
Logan Zeinert, Senior Research Technician
Logan hails from New Zealand but completed his master’s degree at Memorial University in Newfoundland and Labrador. Logan has extensive marine surveying and aquaculture research experience and is an accomplished diver. Logan’s work on kelp has involved permitting sites, determining yields and biomass, planning hatcheries, and processing harvested kelp.
Abby Walker, Student Research Assistant
Abby Walker is a biology student at NIC who is working on a variety of projects as a research assistant. She grew up in Campbell River learning and sharing knowledge about the ocean and the creatures in it. Her goal is to have everyone care about the ocean and the balance we hold with it.
Partners
