Thimble Islands

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"Bren Smith's Thimble Island Kelp Farm occupies 10 acres in Branford, Connecticut. The farm produces a quarter-million pounds of kelp, 200,000 oysters, and several hundred thousand mussels. This vertical farm, which is under the water, boasts a rope scaffolding system just below the surface. The kelp soaks up five times more carbon than land-based plants, creating artificial reefs that attract diverse marine life, including ducks and seals. It's a replicable model requiring $20,000, a boat, and a lease, with Bren leasing his 10 acres for $50 per acre per year."