The Sonoma Coast Seaweed Company- owned and operated by Brian Noyes- is the reincarnation of Heidi Hermann's Strong Arm Farm seaweed harvesting operation. For the previous eight years, Brian has volunteered and worked as a seaweed harvester and processor for Heidi, learning the craft of sustainable seaweed foraging and drying. Inspired by his favorite childhood memories of scrambling over the boulders and exploring the tidepools of Sonoma's coastline with his grandparents, he has entered the business committed to upholding the high standards of quality and environmental responsibility that Heidi has established.
Today, The Sonoma Coast Seaweed Company provides sustainably hand-harvested seaweeds that capture the flavor and spirit of California’s North Coast — connecting land, sea, and community through every harvest.
(For the intrepid and curious, The Sonoma Coast Seaweed Company holds volunteer harvesting days throughout the summer season. If you are interested in joining a harvest or would like to learn more, please email harvest@sonomacoastseaweed.com to receive harvesting invites, seaweed recipes, and ocean-related news. -All email addresses will be held in confidence and never shared.)
Rockweed is a type of brown seaweed that’s tied to traditional medicine. It’s also known as Bladderwrack, red fucus, dyers fucus, rock wrack, black tang, and bladder fucus. This brown algae is packed with vitamins and trace elements, making it a sought-after supplement for both humans and animals. Rockweed steps up to the plate with a composition that includes iodine, vital for thyroid function, and alginate, a fiber that aids digestion. It's also a source of antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress in the body.
Warning: Due to the high levels of iodine, salt, and heavy metals, bladderwrack may not be safe for people with thyroid disorders, those taking certain medications, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare professional first.