Scuba Shack Radio

Scuba Shack Radio


47. Underwater Camera Practice, NOAA’s Coral Reef Strategic Plan and Your Next Dive is in Aruba

December 06, 2020

When is the last time you had your underwater camera system out. If it has been a while you might want to consider taking it out, making sure it was properly cleaned before you put it in storage, and that you do an inventory of all the components. Then familiarize yourself with how to put it all together and make sure that it operates properly. Also, it is a great time to familiarize yourself with the camera, its settings and ensure you develop the muscle memory so when you are underwater things come naturally. Just because it is winter or your are not traveling doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have some fun with your underwater camera system.
NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program’s 2018 Strategic Plan focuses on four key pillars: 1 – Increase resiliency to climate change; 2 – Improve fisheries sustainability; 3 – Reduce land-based sources of pollution and; 4 – Restore viable coral populations. Each pillar is supported by one or more strategies that have both short-term (2 – 5 years), mid-term (5+ years), and long-term (2040) goals. The plan is an 18 page document that is packed with some powerful information. You can check it out at coralreef.noaa.gov in the About us – Who we are tab.
Your Next Dive is in Aruba – one happy island. Aruba is one of the ABC islands that includes Bonaire and Curacao. These islands are independent nations that are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. If you dive from the west side of the island you can use Red Sails Sports and your trips can either be on the west side or the south side. The south side tends to have deeper dives while the west end has shallower dives. The west side also includes the signature wreck dive – the Antilla. This German freighter was deliberately scuttled in 1940 on the outbreak of World War II. A massive 400 foot shallow wreck  sitting in about 60 feet of water. Don’t sell Aruba short if you are going on vacation where you want to get some diving done.