SEAWEED FIELD EXCURSION: INTERTIDAL EXPLORATION
Join us in the intertidal zone to discover the ecology, seasonal rhythms, and practical uses of our local seaweeds!
Join us for an engaging, hands-on exploration of the remarkable world of marine macroalgae. This field-based class invites you into the intertidal zone to discover the ecology, seasonal rhythms, and practical uses of our local seaweeds.
Here’s how one past participant described the experience:
The Seaweed Excursion was amazing! Kristy’s knowledge is unsurpassed— she knows so much about the seaweed world and she deeply cares about environment and community. I am so glad I went for the Excursion—there is plenty to learn of course, but I feel much more confident around seaweeds.
Together, we’ll explore how seaweeds thrive in one of the most dynamic environments on Earth — adapting to tides, weather, and shifting shoreline conditions. You’ll learn to recognize commonly occurring edible species in our region, understand seasonal timing and site considerations for safe harvest, and develop greater confidence navigating intertidal ecosystems.
Harvesting practices will be demonstrated and discussed, though participants will not be harvesting seaweeds for personal use during this program.
Throughout our time together, we will explore:
- Reading the shoreline: tides, substrate, and ecological patterns
- Identification of locally occurring edible seaweeds
- Seasonal growth cycles and harvest windows
- Choosing appropriate harvest locations
- Sustainable harvesting techniques (demonstration)
- Nutritional and wellness applications of seaweeds
We will explore topical, culinary, and creative applications of seaweeds, preparing a seaweed treat together for participants to enjoy and take home — carrying our shoreline learning into practical home uses.
Whether you are curious about edible seaweeds, interested in marine ecology, or simply eager to spend meaningful time in the intertidal, this class offers a rich introduction to working with seaweeds thoughtfully and responsibly.
By the end of the Excursion, you’ll leave with:
Greater confidence identifying common seaweeds
Foundational tools for beginning your own responsible harvesting practice
A basic understanding of seaweeds as food and wellness allies
A deeper appreciation for our local marine ecosystems
For more information and to register, visit www.mermaid-botanicals.com/classes
Good to know
Highlights
- 4 hours
- under 18 with parent or legal guardian
- In person
- Free parking
- Doors at 8:45 AM
Refund Policy
Location
Titlow Park
8425 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98465
How do you want to get there?

Agenda
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Intertidal Exploration: Reading the Shoreline
Together, we’ll explore how seaweeds thrive in one of the most dynamic environments on Earth — adapting to tides, weather, and shifting shoreline conditions. You’ll develop greater confidence navigating intertidal ecosystems.
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Local edible seaweeds ID & Harvesting Basics
Identification of locally occurring edible seaweeds; seasonal growth cycles and harvest windows; choosing appropriate harvest locations; sustainable harvesting techniques (demonstration)
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Seaweed Culinary and Topical Use Demos
We will explore topical, culinary, and creative applications of seaweeds, preparing a seaweed treat together for participants to enjoy and take home — carrying our shoreline learning into practical home uses.