Gas Floats Bulbous float at the end is filled with gas containing carbon monoxide. Native people used dried kelp stipes to make fishing line. Kelp bulbs were used to hold fish oil. Today, kelp extracts are used in industry. Kelp Reduces Beach Erosion Rafts of kelp help reduce beach erosion.
Kelp forests soften the force of waves against the shoreline.
This protection can be seen along the Strait of Juan De Fuca where large kelp beds form bay-like areas along the shoreward side. These bay-like waters provide feeding areas for loons, scoters, grebes, goldeneyes, and Buffleheads. Related Links Puget Sound Intertidal Habitat Inventory 1996, Washington State Department of Natural Resources Distribution of kelp and other vegetation. Marine Algae Photographs, King County, Washington. Photos of bull kelp and other underwater algae and plants.