Be a Friend of the Oceans


documents basic reef coral cover and watchdogs specific significant coral reef sites for changes in coral health, cover, and other key early warning signs of environmental impact. The gathered data is analyzed and published as reports and other public awareness tools for use by local groups in their conservation efforts. Reef Guardian provides a local nonprofit group with training, monitoring equipment, materials, and supplies that are replenished as each monitoring cycle is completed. The local group provides on-site coordination, volunteer manpower and a donated boat to carry out quarterly coral reef surveys. Reef Guardian is always looking for individuals with a concern for coral reefs that are interested in donating their time and resources to assist in these efforts. Reef Guardian will continue to support their existing coral reef monitoring partners and enter into similar agreements with more local groups in Florida, Honduras, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Costa Rica, the Netherlands Antilles, and other locations to monitor key coral reef sites which are clearly in the path of foreseeable developmental impact.

Reef Environmental Education Foundation, REEF provides divers and snorkelers alike with the opportunity to learn more about the underwater wilderness and to become actively involved in its preservation. Each six-day Survey is hosted by highly regarded local resort/dive operators and typically runs from Sunday thru Friday. As a survey volunteer you will gather data at locations especially important to marine wildlife management and conservation officials making a minimum of two survey dives each day, and often additional dives are offered. Between survey dives, enjoy colorful and interactive fish identification presentations by REEF personnel. Learn the most successful surveying strategies, participate in informative discussions, and get plenty of exciting fish behavior tips. You will be amazed at how enjoyable diving will be with your expanded knowledge of marine wildlife. This is your invitation to participate in an enjoyable, educational and environmentally important diving adventure. Check out their website for the Field Survey Schedule.

Undersea Explorer links tourism and coral reef research with onboard marine biologists studying whales, coral reefs, and fish populations. Book a trip on this Aussie live-aboard to combine a great dive vacation with your commitment to Action in protecting the marine environment.
© 2005 Linda Gettmann



The copyright of the article Be a Friend of the Oceans in Scuba Diving is owned by Linda Gettmann. Permission to republish Be a Friend of the Oceans in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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