21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Drone/Aerial
GOLDEN SEAWEED SEASON

From June every year, seaweed beds proliferate beneath the shores, rocky reefs, and emerge when the tide recedes. Residents of the coastal region in Quang Ngai only need to bring a cutting tool to harvest seaweed. Those who are better equipped can use small baskets and paddle further out, diving into depths ranging from 2 to 7 meters to cut seaweed. The diving and cutting process begins from 5:30 to 6:00 in the morning until late afternoon. Some people bring food and drinks to have lunch right on the sea when the workload is heavy. They take advantage of resting on the beach or during the times they pull the fresh seaweed ashore. For the locals, seaweed is a "sea fortune" that requires no planting or care, but during the harvesting season, the sea provides plentiful yield, and diligent locals can gather a large quantity. Seaweed harvesting brings a relatively high income to the fishermen of the coastal area. Therefore, during the seaweed season, the shores are filled with baskets collecting seaweed. However, this occupation requires individuals with good health and diving skills.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Quang Ngai, Vietnam
Camera: L2D-20c
Copyright: © Alex Cao