CCA California recently launched an ongoing campaign to help raise awareness and educate the fishing, diving and boating public about a growing threat to our state’s native kelp — an invasive seaweed species known as “Devil Weed.”

The campaign was kicked off during the Pacific Coast Sportfishing shows in Orange County and San Diego where CCA representatives shared information on this rapidly spreading invasive seaweed and how it is negatively impacting our native kelp beds.

“This is an important issue that boaters and anglers need to be aware of,” said Doug Lasko, president of CCA California.

An invasive species brought from Japan and Korea through shipping, Sargassum horneri has been spreading throughout Southern California waters for more than 20 years. It displaces native kelp and since it thrives during warm water cycles, its spread has been accelerating.

“Our goal is to educate, inform and motivate anglers, divers, and boaters. This means recognizing Sargassum horneri when you encounter it, not contributing to the spread by moving or disturbing it and reporting when and where you encounter it through established websites. Through these actions, we can be an important part of the solution,” added Lasko.

The Chapter will be providing literature and information in print and online, promoting awareness during chapter and statewide events, making presentations at fishing club meetings across Southern California, and more.

“This wasn’t a one-time deal for the PCS shows,” said Luke Burson, chair of the chapter Habitat Committee. “We will continue supporting the organizations and marine scientists who are working on this problem by spreading the word and educating people about how they can help,” added Burson.

Here are some general guidelines boaters, anglers and sport divers can follow:

• Learn to identify Devil Weed in its various life stages.
• Report where you find it through MarineInvasives.org.
• Avoid fishing and/or anchoring in infested areas you encounter.
• Remove Devil Weed fragments from anchor, lines, gear, and deck before moving your boat and save for later disposal.
• Clean your hull thoroughly after returning to harbor or putting on the trailer.

For more information and to join the effort to Help Our Kelp, visit CCACalifornia.org.