Many stakeholders see California as kelp farming’s next frontier, but they say the permitting process is slow, expensive, and confusing.
Seaweed farming in California faces significant challenges despite its potential benefits for the environment and local economies. Entrepreneurs Catherine O’Hare and Jules Marsh were inspired by the sustainability and climate benefits of seaweed but abandoned their efforts due to California’s arduous, costly permitting process, which takes 3.5 to 10 years on average—far longer than in states like Alaska or Maine.
California’s complex regulatory system, influenced by environmental reviews, vessel traffic, and other factors, makes ocean farming nearly inaccessible. While organizations like Kelpful and Daybreak Seaweed pivoted to alternative ventures like foraging workshops and products using out-of-state seaweed, other innovators like Daniel Marquez remain stalled despite securing a pre-approved lease.
State agencies acknowledge the issues and are working to streamline the process through initiatives like centralized online permits and local partnerships. Some regions, such as San Diego and Humboldt Bay, have pioneered solutions by assuming regulatory burdens to support seaweed projects. Advocates emphasize the urgency for faster progress, particularly for restoration-focused farming models that could help combat bull kelp decline and address climate goals.