DA-BFAR constructs 2 Seaweed Nurseries with help from Jose Dalman Fishers

Last November 8 - 12, 2021, technical personnel from the DA-BFAR-IX PFO-ZDN headed by
Provincial Fishery Officer Arcelita A. Andaya in coordination with the local government unit of Jose
Dalman successfully established two (2) seaweed nurseries in the said municipality. The units are
located at the barangays of Madalag (8.411903°N 122.977831°E) and Tamil (8.432345°N
123.007721°E). These sites were previously assessed for the viability of establishing seaweed
nurseries. The same areas are also considered as traditional seaweed farming grounds of the
aforementioned barangays.

Through the active participation of the beneficiary fisherfolk groups, namely, the Madalag
Fisherfolk Association and Tamil Seaweed Planters Association, the actual establishment of the
seaweed nursery which initially included the setting of moorings, and the attachment of the frame,
as well as the final planting process was promptly accomplished. It is also important to note that
the seaweed planting materials was partially sourced from another seaweed nursery which was
also established by BFAR at barangay Sebaca (8.641286°N 123.529035°E), Rizal Zamboanga del
Norte, conveniently located just two hours away from the newly established seaweed nurseries at
Jose Dalman.

The establishment of seaweed nurseries in strategic locations across the province is a critical aspect
in sustaining, improving, and expanding seaweed productivity. Reestablishing this industry in areas
where the Covid-19 pandemic has adversely affected the fisherfolks and their livelihood is a timely
intervention. Earlier seaweed nurseries which were established by the bureau have proven to be
productive and have shown their effectiveness in terms of productivity by supplementing the needs
for seaweed seedlings for other areas.

The bureau with its top management and technical personnel on the ground remains constant in
showing its commitment to the seaweed farmers and the fisherfolk in general all throughout the
province which is a key strategy in forging cooperation among all the stakeholders involved. This
project is a solid example of how cooperation is fostered, resulting in productive outputs consistent
with the mission and vision of BFAR for fish food security and improved livelihood for fishers.