Kelpfest is an annual April event at Main Beach in Laguna Beach celebrating and promoting awareness of kelp forests referred to as the rainforests of the sea. Environmental organizations with exhibits help educate participants, along with life-size interactive kelp forest model, live performances, guided tide pool tours, a swim to the kelp forest, a mermaid, beach clean up, and arts and crafts for kids. The festival was created by Marine Biologist Nancy Caruso who launched a grassroots kelp restoration project in 2002 when she learned the kelp forests of Orange County were disappearing due primarily to overfishing and pollution. Volunteers grew to 5,000 and by 2010 kelp off the coast of Laguna and Newport Beach began to flourish, reaching historic densities. Animals and sea life have returned to an area that was barren 20 years ago. Divers have lots to see now!
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