Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
NORTHERN KELP (SKAGI)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 9 058 tonnes around Skagi.
Stock development
There is no available information on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Skagi and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Skagi.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 452 904 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 9 058 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Skagi is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed within two demarcated areas around Skagi, one on the eastern part of Skagi and the other around Drangey (areas defined below). These areas will be used as reference areas to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Skagi. Blue areas are suggested areas where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship. Red areas without sailing lines are not measured but modeled to reflect the likely distribution of Northern kelp.
Northern kelp: Coordinates of the suggested ares by Skagi and Drangey where harvesting would not be permitted.
Drangey | 1. 66°01'49''N — 019°43'27''V |
Skagi | 1. 66°04'42''N — 020°02'47''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Skagi, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 9 058 | ||
2026/2027 | 9 058 | ||
2027/2028 | 9 058 | ||
2028/2029 | 9 058 | ||
2029/2030 | 9 058 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (TRÖLLASKAGI)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 5 782 tonnes around Tröllaskagi.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Tjörnes and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Tröllaskagi.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 289 104 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 5 782 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Tröllaskagi is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed around Málmey. This area will be used as reference area to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Tröllaskagi. Blue area is a suggested area where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship.
Northern kelp: Coordinates of the suggested areas around Málmey where harvesting would not be permitted.
Málmey | 1. 65°59'09''N — 019°32'59''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Tröllaskagi, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 5 782 | ||
2026/2027 | 5 782 | ||
2027/2028 | 5 782 | ||
2028/2029 | 5 782 | ||
2029/2030 | 5 782 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (FLATEYJARSKAGI)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 3 420 tonnes around Flateyjarskagi.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Flateyjarskagi and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Flateyjarskagi.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 171 004 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 3 420 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Flateyjarskagi is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed around Hrísey. This area will be used as reference area to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Flateyjarskagi. Blue area is a suggested area where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship. Red areas without sailing lines are not measured but modeled to reflect the likely distribution of Northern kelp.
Northern kelp: Coordinates of the suggested areas around Hrísey where harvesting would not be permitted.
Hrísey | 1. 66°03'15''N — 018°28'24''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Flateyjarskagi, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 3 420 | ||
2026/2027 | 3 420 | ||
2027/2028 | 3 420 | ||
2028/2029 | 3 420 | ||
2029/2030 | 3 420 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (TJÖRNES)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 2 478 tonnes around Tjörnes.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Tjörnes and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp. Advice calculation for Tjörnes.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 123 913 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 2 478 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Tjörnes is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). In addition, it is recommended that harvesting at depths > 12 meters not be permitted, since biomass at 15 meter depth in the biomass survey was low with a high observed presence of grazing Blue-rayed limpet (Patella pellucida). Research is needed on the consequences of harvesting on sustainable harvest rates.
The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed around Mánáreyjar. This area will be used as reference area to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Tjörnes. Blue area is a suggested area where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship. Red areas without sailing lines are not measured but modeled to reflect the likely distribution of Northern kelp.
Northern kelp: Coordinates of the suggested areas by Mánáreyjar where harvesting would not be permitted.
Mánáreyjar | 1. 66°15'23''N — 017°05'56''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Tjörnes, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 2 478 | ||
2026/2027 | 2 478 | ||
2027/2028 | 2 478 | ||
2028/2029 | 2 478 | ||
2029/2030 | 2 478 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (MELRAKKASLÉTTA WEST)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 6 241 tonnes around Melrakkaslétta West.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Melrakkaslétta West and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Melrakkaslétta West.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 312 066 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 6 241 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Melrakkaslétta West is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Melrakkaslétta West. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship.
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Melrakkaslétta West, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 6 241 | ||
2026/2027 | 6 241 | ||
2027/2028 | 6 241 | ||
2028/2029 | 6 241 | ||
2029/2030 | 6 241 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (MELRAKKASLÉTTA EAST)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 5 773 tonnes around Melrakkaslétta East.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Melrakkaslétta East and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Melrakkaslétta East.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 288 641 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 5 773 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Melrakkaslétta East is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed in an area around Melrakkaslétta East (area defined below). This area will be used as reference area to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Melrakkaslétta East. Blue area is a suggested area where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship.
Northern kelp Coordinates of the suggested areas by Melrakkaslétta East where harvesting would not be permitted.
Melrakkaslétta | 1. 66°30'47''N — 015°59'25''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Melrakkaslétta East, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 5 773 | ||
2026/2027 | 5 773 | ||
2027/2028 | 5 773 | ||
2028/2029 | 5 773 | ||
2029/2030 | 5 773 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (LANGANES NORTH)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 9 683 tonnes around Langanes North.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Langanes North and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Langanes North.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 484 150 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 9 683 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Langanes North is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed around Skoruvíkurbjarg. This area will be used as reference area to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Langanes North. Blue area is a suggested area where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship.
Northern kelp: Coordinates of the suggested areas by Langanes North where harvesting would not be permitted.
Langanes norður | 1. 66°22'25''N — 014°53'55''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Langanes North, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 9 683 | ||
2026/2027 | 9 683 | ||
2027/2028 | 9 683 | ||
2028/2029 | 9 683 | ||
2029/2030 | 9 683 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (LANGANES SOUTH)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, that the harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) for each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 will not exceed 3 673 tonnes around Langanes South.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
GThe basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Langanes South and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Langanes South.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 183 642 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 3 673 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Langanes South is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
It is recommended that harvesting be distributed throughout the area to prevent local over-exploitation and that harvesting is only permitted in the areas that have been directly measured, except in closures suggested in the advice (areas marked in blue). The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Langanes South. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship.
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Langanes South, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 3 673 | ||
2026/2027 | 3 673 | ||
2027/2028 | 3 673 | ||
2028/2029 | 3 673 | ||
2029/2030 | 3 673 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.
NORTHERN KELP (VATNSNES)
Laminaria hyperborea
Publication of Advice: 18 March 2026. Published by Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Advice
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute advises, in accordance with a precautionary approach, no harvesting of Northern kelp (Laminaria hyperborea) each fishing year 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029 and 2029/2030 around Vatnsnes.
Stock development
There is no information available on stock development.
Basis of the advice
Basis of the advice | Precautionary approach |
Management plan | There is no management plan for this stock |
Assessment type | Distribution models and biomass estimates |
Input data | Direct biomass and acoustic measurements |
Approach | Reference point | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
Precautionary approach | Harvesting rate (HR) | 0.02 | 2 % of biomass in areas open to harvest |
The basis of the advice, of 2% harvesting of the estimated biomass, is from information on harvesting of Northern kelp and area management in Norway (Norderhaug et al., 2020, 2021). The advice of biomass for harvesting is based on the stock assessment of Northern kelp around Vatnsnes and multiplying the biomass of the area open to harvest by the harvesting rate (0.02).
Northern kelp: Advice calculation for Vatnsnes.
I: Latest index value (I2026) | 0 |
HR: Harvest rate, 2% of biomass in areas open to harvest | 0.02 |
Catch advice for each fishing season 2025/2026, 2026/2027, 2027/2028, 2028/2029, 2029/20301) 2) | 0.00 |
1) I x HR | |
2) The figures in the table are rounded. Calculations were done with unrounded inputs, and compared values may not match exactly when calculated using the rounded figures in the table. | |
This is the first time advice is given for this stock.
Quality of the assessment
The results of this stock assessment of Northern kelp around Vatnsnes is used to advise on harvesting opportunities for 5 fishing years.
Other information
The area zonation of the advice might change when the areas have harvesting history.
It is not possible to assess the impact of harvesting on Northern kelp without biomass indices. Information on indices can come from regular measurements on the distribution and biomass or data from the ships on catch per unit effort (CPUE) for each area. At the moment there are no obligations on submission of CPUE data but they are necessary to track possible stock changes to regularly reassess the stock assessment and harvesting rate.
The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggests that harvesting of Northern kelp will not be allowed around Vatnsnes as there are important seal colonies. This area will be used as reference area to assess and compare the impact of harvesting Northern kelp in areas open for harvest.
Northern kelp: Distribution of Northern kelp (red) around Vatnsnes. Blue area is a suggested area where harvesting would not be permitted. Black lines are the sailing lines of the measuring ship. Red areas without sailing lines are not measured but modeled to reflect the likely distribution of Northern kelp.
Northern kelp: Coordinates of the suggested areas by Vatnsnes where harvesting would not be permitted.
Vatnsnes | 1. 65°40'27''N — 020°35'27''V |
Advice, tac and catch
Northern kelp. Recommended TAC around Vatnsnes, national TAC, and catches (tonnes).
Fishing year | Recommended TAC | National TAC | Total catch |
|---|---|---|---|
2025/2026 | 0 | ||
2026/2027 | 0 | ||
2027/2028 | 0 | ||
2028/2029 | 0 | ||
2029/2030 | 0 |
References and further reading
Norderhaug, K.M., van Son, T.C., Nikolioudakis, N., Thormar, J., Moy, F., Knutsen, J.A., Elvenes, S., Steen, H. 2020. Biomassemodell for stortare — Ressursmodell for fremtidens forvaltning. Havforskningsinstituttet rapport.
Norderhaug, K.M., Brandt, C.F., Espeland, S.H., Albretsen, J., Christensen-Dalsgaard, S., Ohldieck, M.J., 2021. Sustainable kelp harvesting–assessment of sustainability criteria for Vikna, Norway (IMR). Available at: https://www.hi.no/templates/reporteditor/report-pdf?id=49308&05873304.
Stofnmatsskýrslur Hafrannsóknastofnunar 2026. Northern kelp. Hafrannsóknastofnun, 18 March 2026.