Importance and Limitations of Seaweed Farming In Sri Lanka: Farmers' Perspective

Abstract

Though seaweed acts as a catalyst of social progression in bringing sustainable coastal communities, the present seaweed cultivation in Sri Lanka is at a downfall. Moreover, the exact degree of actual function as a livelihood option and the limiting factors of the system are not assessed properly. Thus, the present study attempts to identify the perceived importance and obstacles associated with seaweed cultivation. This investigation was conducted covering 160 seaweed farmers in Northern part of Sri Lanka, and a questionnaire survey, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted to collect information. Simple descriptive, analytical techniques such as frequency tables, cross tabulation and arithmetic means, and percentages were used in the data analysis. Among different livelihood activities, fishing, seaweed, and labor works respectively received higher levels of perceived importance by the farmers. Seaweed farming is perceived as a supportive agent in diversifying the livelihood options and the favorable attributes like the possibility to integrate easily with fishing, contract-growing system, a solution for deprivation of terrestrial lands, low requirement of compulsory agro -inputs and rapid return on investment were identified as encouraging features. As a simple farming technique, seaweed has the potential to expand its horizons enabling the involvement of more women. The prevalence of unfavorable weather, poor quality of planting materials, distortions in purchasing system, improper aquatic environments, poor post-harvest handling, damaged by predators, occupational health hazards and theft problem were identified as major limiting factors of the system. In conclusion, seaweed farming was perceived as an important livelihood option for coastal farming communities. The prevailing obstacles can be minimized by making adjustments in the cultivation season, offering problem related extension and training programs, introducing a flexible purchasing mechanism and establishing more collaborative actions among key stakeholders.