Help us Build a Kelp Hatchery on Jamaica Bay - The Seaweed Project
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The Seaweed Project: Cultivating a Brighter Future for Edgemere
Join us in building a thriving community hub for sustainable kelp seed production!
The Seaweed Project is an innovative initiative in Edgemere, a coastal community on the Rockaway peninsula in NYC. Despite its waterfront location, Edgemere residents have limited access and economic opportunities.
Our Vision:
· Empowerment: Create a resident-owned and operated kelp hatchery, providing jobs and income.
· Sustainability: Foster regenerative aquaculture seed supply, promoting healthy marine ecosystems in Jamaica Bay.
· Community Hub: Build a pilot kelp hatchery and engagement center, offering education, recreation, and waterfront access.
The Project Core:
· Seed and Hatchery: We'll develop a local facility to cultivate kelp seed, minimizing operational costs.
· Community-Driven: Residents will build and manage the hatchery, fostering ownership and long-term success.
· Scalable Model: Our pilot will pave the way for a community-owned operation that furthers the growth of the blue economy.
Benefits of a Thriving Seaweed Project:
· Job Creation: Opportunities across the seaweed value chain - from seed production to harvest and sales.
· Environmental Restoration: Kelp helps improve water quality and supports marine life.
· Community Engagement: Public programs, waterfront access, and recreational activities like paddling and sailing.
Challenges and Opportunities:
· Seed Security: We need resources to build a robust seed and hatchery facility.
· Supply and Demand: Addressing shortfalls in seed supply and leveraging the Edgemere community to grow demand for kelp production in the tri-state area.
· Funding: Leveraging existing support (land, project team) with grant funding and investments.
We Need Your Help!
Here's How You Can Get Involved:
· Become an Ally: Help us deepen local connections with nearby kelp enthusiasts in and around New York City. We are looking to build relationships with academic institutions, not-for-profits, and people of all ages who are kelp-curious and want to get involved.
· Brainstorm with Us: Offer ideas for future development, programming, building and water systems.
· Grant Connections: Do you know of relevant grants or funding programs? Suggestions for successful fundraising needed.
· Template Assistance: Share templates (e.g., business plans) that can help us develop a strong proposal.
Together, we can turn The Seaweed Project into a reality, revitalize Edgemere, and cultivate a sustainable future for the community!
Leave a comment below or contact us directly to share your thoughts and suggestions.
