Sea Otters & Kelp Forests: Restoring Oregon’s Missing Link

This recording is the third in our "Restoring Our Kelp Forests" series. Sea otters once thrived along the Oregon coast, playing a critical role in maintaining healthy kelp forests. Their removal during the maritime fur trade left a missing link in Oregon’s nearshore ecosystem, contributing to unchecked sea urchin populations and declining kelp habitat. In this engaging and science-based presentation, marine biologist Chanel Hason explores how sea otters function as keystone predators, the cascading ecological benefits they bring to kelp forests and estuaries, and what restoration could mean for Oregon’s biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal resilience. Attendees gain insight into the collaborative, tribal-led efforts underway to develop a responsible reintroduction plan by the Elakha Alliance–and how restoring this iconic species could help rebalance Oregon’s underwater forests for generations to come. Chanel Hason is a marine biologist, environmental educator, and passionate ocean advocate serving as the Director of Outreach & Community Relations for the Elakha Alliance. With a background that includes working with sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, conducting marine research on the Great Barrier Reef, and educating communities about the wonders of the natural world, Chanel brings science to life with energy and heart. At Elakha, she leads public engagement efforts to support the restoration of sea otters to the Oregon coast–reviving an essential keystone species to help restore balance to nearshore ecosystems. Whether she’s giving a science pub talk, running a fundraiser, or tabling at community events, Chanel loves inspiring people to fall in love with sea otters and the kelp forests they call home. This series is brought to you by Seven Capes Bird Alliance in partnership with Friends of Otter Rock, Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition, Oregon Kelp Alliance, and the Elakha Alliance.