Impacts of wildfire runoff on giant kelp in Malibu, California

By: , and 

Metrics

2
Crossref references
Web analytics dashboard Metrics definitions

Links

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of post-wildfire sediment runoff on giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) populations in Malibu, California, following the 2018 Woolsey Fire. The research utilizes satellite data and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to assess changes in sediment delivery and its correlation with reduced kelp abundance. Findings indicate a significant decrease in kelp canopy recovery, post-fire, with ongoing limited regrowth up to 2023. This study underscores the critical impacts of wildfire-induced sediment runoff on marine ecosystems and emphasizes the need for tailored coastal management and restoration strategies to mitigate these effects and support the resilience of kelp forests, which are vital for biodiversity and coastal ecosystem services.

Suggested Citation

Berberian, L., Lee, C.M., Hestir, E., Cavanaugh, K.C., Lopez, A., Blackwood, C., and Avouris, D., 2024, Impacts of wildfire runoff on giant kelp in Malibu, California, 2024 IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, Athens, Greece, July 7-12, 2024, p. 5935-5939, https://doi.org/10.1109/IGARSS53475.2024.10642264.

Study Area

Publication type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Title Impacts of wildfire runoff on giant kelp in Malibu, California
DOI 10.1109/IGARSS53475.2024.10642264
Year Published 2024
Language English
Publisher IEEE
Contributing office(s) California Water Science Center
Description 5 p.
First page 5935
Last page 5939
Conference Title 2024 IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium
Conference Location Athens, Greece
Conference Date July 7-12, 2024
Country United States
State California
City Malibu
Additional publication details