The Seaweed Field Excursion is a unique, hands-on learning experience designed to immerse you in the fascinating world of macroalgae. Together, we’ll explore seaweeds’ vital role in human health and the amazing ways they’ve evolved to survive and thrive in one of the most challenging environments on the planet. This 3-hour Excursion will give you the chance to directly engage with our local seaweeds and marine ecosystem, gaining the skills to identify, sustainably harvest, and incorporate seaweeds into your daily life—whether for food, garden, or creative projects.
During this Excursion, you'll discover the biodiversity of the intertidal zone, where seaweeds have developed unique adaptations to flourish. Through guided, hands-on learning, you’ll cultivate a deeper understanding of how seaweeds interact with their environment and how they’ve evolved to survive in these highly variable intertidal conditions.
Seaweeds are not just fascinating organisms—they are incredible, nutrient-dense food sources and rich in bioactive compounds. Seaweeds offer us an exceptional range of flavors and health benefits. From supporting thyroid function and gut health to nourishing the skin in topical applications, seaweeds have long been revered for their wellness-promoting properties. During the Excursion, we’ll explore how seaweeds can support your health and how to integrate them into your daily diet.
Our interactive learning journey will be packed with information, demos, and practical experiences:
Seaweed identification: Learn to identify edible seaweeds in the field.
Harvest Timing and Conditions : Discover the best tides, seasons, and location criteria for harvesting seaweeds.
Sustainable Harvesting: Learn how to sustainably harvest, dry, and store seaweeds.
Seaweed Spa: Explore how seaweeds are used topically in rejuvenating treatments and wellness practices.
Nutrition & Health: Learn about seaweeds’ exceptional nutritional and health supportive benefits.
Pollution Awareness & Seaweed Health: Learn how to evaluate pollution risks and make informed decisions about collecting and consuming seaweeds based on local conditions, contaminant bioavailability, and your individual health picture.
Kelp Pickle Demo: Get hands-on in making a batch of delicious kelp pickles to take home and enjoy.
Seaweed Art Activity: Create unique art inspired by the marine environment.
Mermaid Botanicals T-shirt Raffle: One lucky class participant will win a unique Bullwhip Kelp-themed t-shirt from Mermaid Botanicals!
By the end of the Excursion, you’ll feel inspired to incorporate seaweeds into your food, wellness practices, personal care routines, and more. You’ll leave with the basic tools you need to continue your macroalgal explorations—to identify, harvest, and enjoy seaweeds in your everyday life. Most importantly, you’ll develop a deeper sense of connection with our local marine ecosystems, our evolutionary ancestors, and the worldwide ocean community through the seaweeds we meet in our own backyard.
Note: There will be no seaweed harvesting in this class. If harvesting seaweeds during class is a priority, join us on May 1 on Whidbey Island!
Early Bird discount ($5 off) through May 1, 2025.
Refund Policy: No refunds on cancellations after May 22, 2025.
Register here.
Class location details will be emailed to class participants. Folks are encouraged to meet at Living Earth Herbs to carpool.