PENGELOLAAN BUDIDAYA RUMPUT LAUT OLEH MASYARAKAT PESISIR SAAT PANDEMI COVID-19 DI DESA TABLOLONG

Abstract

The Indonesian government's policies related to Covid-19 have had an impact on several sectors including the seaweed industry. During the Covid-19 pandemic, coastal communities tend to choose seaweed cultivation in improving the welfare of their families because of low investment capital and operational costs, easy cultivation techniques, cheap labor and short cultivation cycles, the risk of failure is relatively small, as a source of income, food security and employment. This study was to determine the management of seaweed cultivation by coastal communities during the Covid-19 pandemic in Tablolong Village. This research is qualitative research with case study method, data collection technique using purposive sampling and structured interview method. The results showed a positive socio-economic impact of seaweed cultivation activities. To achieve sustainable socio-economic benefits from seaweed cultivation, coastal communities need collaboration from the government, research institutions, educational and training institutions, the private sector, and other relevant stakeholders to support seaweed productivity and be more consistent and improve the quality of seaweed at the cultivator level.