Ice Cream Lovers Rejoice!

An important ingredient in the popular dessert can be found right here at Basin Head.

The Marine Protected Area is Prince Edward Island’s only natural habitat for Chondrus Crispus, a giant variety of Irish moss rich in carrageen, and used in many household products such as ice cream and sunscreen. The local wildlife group consistently monitors the growth of the moss, undergoing restoration activities as needed. Water from several sites is sampled for nutrient analysis, streamflow measurement, and water chemistry. Clumps of the Irish moss and PEI Blue Mussels have been planted at select locations and are surveyed and documented to restore the Irish moss population at Basin Head to healthy, self-sustaining levels.