Posted by Elaine on December 24, 2003 at 22:37:20:
In Reply to: Cater to the non-consumptive participants. posted by Brad on December 24, 2003 at 19:45:46:
Some marine life protected areas where we could dive and see the benefits of non-consumption would be a good start. If they would work to spiff up our waters to what they are supposed to look like, Southern California would indeed take its rightful place as a worldclass dive destination.
Making sure that all of the stuff that is supposed to be out there, and, that used to be out there once again has a place and an opportunity to thrive is critical. This list would include all of our usual critters, plus abs, plus sharks, everything.
On a recent trip to Santa Cruz island we dove close to some commercial fishing boats. The fish population was so sparce I couldn't figure out how the commercial boats could possibly be making any money - there wasn't much left.
I have had the good fortune to dive in most major dive destinations in the Carribean and the South Pacific. Southern California is the only place where there is a line of people behind you with spear guns waiting for you to finish taking your photograph so they can get their "shot" at the fish. It is very unnerving. It is also the only place where you can stop to look at a sea cucumber and somebody will swim by, pick it up, and put it in a game bag. Only in California.