New Legislation Allows Kelp Cultivation In Gardiner, Peconic Bays

NORTH FORK, NY — Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed new legislation to promote aquaculture.

The legislation permits kelp cultivation in underwater lands at Gardiners and Peconic Bays on the East End, lawmakers said.

Suffolk County will now be able to lease lands underwater ceded to it by the state for the purpose of kelp and other seaweed cultivation. The legislation also extends for a year certain provisions regarding commercial fishing licenses, a release said.

"Environmental conservation is an issue that is close to my heart and a key priority for my administration," Hochul said. "The cultivation of kelp and other seaweed will help restore the health of ecosystems in these bays, promote the emerging aquaculture market, and support the local economy."

The goal of the legislation, Hochul said, is to help to restore water quality and fish habitat by reducing nitrogen pollution and strengthening natural ecosystems. The initiative will also bolster the growing seaweed farming industry, providing economic benefits. A total of 110,000 acres of underwater land can be cultivated via the legislation, land that was previously ceded to Suffolk County for the purpose of shellfish cultivation, Hochul said.

"I have pursued the enactment of this legislation for years as studies have highlighted the benefits of kelp in removing nitrogen from our waters," New York State Assemblyman Fred Thiele said. "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."