In Reviving Giants, baby kelp were grown in a lab and seeded onto twine that was planted at different sites around Tasmania. Six months later, the kelp had already grown to over 5m tall!

But this methodology took a lot of trial and error to get right. Scientists are still learning and improving the process, in order to upscale their restoration efforts.

But it’s important to note that restoration is expensive and used as a last resort for areas where vital habitats have been lost or are in decline and natural recovery is not occurring.

16. Why do you think choosing the right location is so important? What factors need to be considered?

Giant kelp restoration is not the only type of restoration happening on the Great Southern Reef. In this next short video, you will learn about restoration of Golden Kelp using a similar but different technique, called Green Gravel.

17. Your task is to now record information about this restoration activity, including:

a) Location: The geographical area where the restoration project is being conducted.

b) Focus Species: The specific species that the restoration project aims to support or revive.

c) Project Size/Scale: The extent or scope of the restoration project, including how large the area is and the number of species or habitats involved.

d) Community Engagement: The ways in which local communities and volunteers are involved in the restoration project, such as through education, participation, or awareness campaigns.

e) Results to Date: The outcomes or achievements of the restoration project so far, including any measurable improvements or successes.

f) Future Work: The planned next steps or ongoing efforts needed to continue the restoration project and ensure its long-term success.

Now it’s time to learn about other restoration efforts happening across the Great Southern Reef.

18. Use the restoration page on the GSRF website as well as this linkpage to complete the following table.

Restoration