Pendampingan Kelompok Nelayan dalam Optimalisasi Budidaya Kerang Hijau melalui Metode Rakit Tancap di Desa Pidodo Kulon, Kendal

Abstract

The Shellfish Farmer Group in Pidodo Kulon Village has faced significant challenges in green mussel (Perna viridis) cultivation due to the conventional stake method, which uses bamboo as the attachment medium for mussel spat. This method is highly susceptible to damage caused by wood-boring organisms and sea wave action, resulting in inconsistent harvests and recurring economic losses for the farmers. This community service program aimed to assist the partner group in optimizing green mussel cultivation through the introduction of the raft-stake method as an alternative solution to the limitations of the previous technique. The implementation method included preliminary observation and interviews to identify partners' problems, a socialization session held on June 13, 2026, to provide understanding of green mussel biological characteristics and optimal growth requirements, and technical training through direct practice of the raft-stake method. The results showed strong enthusiasm and openness among the partner group toward the newly introduced method, reflected in high participation and critical questions during the socialization session, despite technical training being partially hindered by poor weather conditions. Furthermore, the program enhanced the partners’ understanding and technical skills in green mussel cultivation while creating opportunities to improve productivity and reduce losses associated with the traditional cultivation method. Continued mentoring, periodic monitoring of production outcomes, strengthening of group institutional capacity, and further study on marketing and value-added processed products are recommended to support the program's sustainability.