DIVE REPORT: CONSERVATION COUNTS ON EARTH DAY AND EVERY DAY

Written by Upper Keys Mortgage Syndicated User on April 30, 2021. Posted in Community News, Dive Report, Florida Keys, Florida Keys Diving, Islamorada Dive Center, Scuba, scuba diving, Upper Keys Florida Mortgage, Upper Keys Mortgage, Water Life.

Welcome to the fabulous Florida Keys. Our waters are famous for a few reasons, and this week we saw why.

This Week’s Dive Report

Overall, conditions were nice this past week, with good visibility. We had Kevin Millwood, retired MLB pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, and his family out with us.

On Molasses Reef, we dove the “winch hole” there and there were so many turtles all around! Sea turtles are some of the most amazing creatures to dive with. Sometimes, we just want to sit for hours and hang out with them.

The 8th Annual REEF Lionfish Derby targeted invasive lionfish, asking divers to help get them off the reefs. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

This weekend was also Earth Day and the 8th annual Locals Lionfish Derby hosted by REEF. Even with windy conditions and some boats canceling, the event was a huge success. The winning team was Forever Young with 269 lionfish removed from our reefs in one day! Congrats, Tony and team!

Next Week’s Dive Report

Conditions next week look a little bumpy during the week with 3- to 4-foot seas, but calm down just in time for the weekend. It should be pleasant “Keys” diving after that.

This Saturday, we’re hosting our regular coral restoration dives at Islamorada Dive Center. Join us to make a difference with your own two hands!

Conservation Update

Diving this week was “a-ok,” with nice conditions and good visibility. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

This week, we took care of our environment above and below the water. Islamorada Dive Center sponsored the 1st Annual Ocean Studies Marine Debris Derby. The kids cleaned up over 2,500 pounds of marine debris from Harry Harris Park and other Upper Keys areas. We’re so proud to partner with the next generation to ensure the Keys stay beautiful and clean.

Conservation Tip

When enjoying our waters, be conscientious of your trash and belongings. Leave no trace when enjoying our oceans. Whatever you pack to take to the beach or on the boat, make sure you pack it back with you afterwards. Ensure that nothing ends up in our beautiful seas.

I.CARE Tip

When you go diving with Islamorada Dive Center, a portion of every charter and every scuba course benefits I.CARE and goes to restoring our reefs.