Actions:
collate and compare remote sensing mapping methods (BC & WA); guide decisions on which tools to use for which scale, which species, and what purpose
share examples of remote sensing for kelp mapping in practice
find regional consensus on canopy kelp EOVs based on international (e.g. GOOS) standards
share & standardize floating canopy kelp indicators between WA and BC
plan & coordinate sentinel sites for strategic canopy kelp monitoring (w subtidal monitoring WG)
update, improve organization and access to canopy kelp data/information and metadata (3.1) including historical information sources and TEK
chart a framework for integrating and visualizing large-scale spatial data (e.g., remotely sensed, modeled, historical)
review and expand large-scale cross-boundary data to examine spatial kelp declines, recovery and stability (canopy-forming and understory) at regional and sub-regional scales
review analyses & compare methods to group and segment management/monitoring units for kelp habitats in WA and BC, working towards standardized methods
synthesize and map distribution of monitoring effort across units
compare effectiveness of available protections for kelp via regulations, programs and policies in BC and WA (e.g. oil spill response)
increase protection by addressing key gaps across national and transboundary programs (e.g. name kelp in existing regulations, foster coordination among organizations conducting surveys
share how kelp habitats are being included in BC/WA marine planning initiatives (existing and new reserves, refuges, MPAs): consideration of zoning, representatives, connectivity, implementation of protections
plan for cohesive cross-boundary management areas/coastline extents