Abstract
The mechanized harvesting of Laminaria hyperborea in Norway began nearly 50 years ago. Based on a clear understanding of the ecology and life cycle of L. hyperborea as well as the ecosystem, a sustainable management program for the harvest was created with a 5-year cycle and rotating zones in fields as the foundation of the plan. This has allowed a steady annual harvest of 130,000–180,000 t wet weight, depending on market demand. In the last decade, the Norwegian government, working with industry and other stakeholders, has produced more refined policies/documents governing the harvest. This macroalgal harvest plan provides an excellent example for resource managers in other parts of the world laboring to create sustainable harvest management plans.
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Acknowledgements
We thank Mr. Oddvar Hausken for information regarding his kelp harvesting experience from 1963 to 2010. In addition, we thank Ms. Kristianne V. L. Ervik and Mr. Eivind Vea for reading and commenting on the manuscript.
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Vea, J., Ask, E. Creating a sustainable commercial harvest of Laminaria hyperborea, in Norway. J Appl Phycol 23, 489–494 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-010-9610-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-010-9610-y