We three founding members of Out Scuba believe strongly in giving back to what we love, and protecting our oceans so that we leave them better than we found them. Take only pictures, leave only bubbles is our motto! We’ve made a habit out of joining other local organizations and businesses for their pier cleanups.
Scuba divers play a vital role in cleaning up debris from beneath fishing piers, helping to maintain the health and safety of marine environments. These clean-up efforts often involve removing discarded fishing lines, hooks, plastic waste, and other debris that accumulate around piers. By removing these hazards, divers help prevent entanglement and ingestion by marine animals, which can lead to injury or death. Additionally, clearing debris improves the aesthetic quality of the underwater environment, making it safer and more enjoyable for both marine life and human visitors.
The need for these clean-ups is driven by the significant impact that marine debris has on ecosystems. Fishing lines and hooks can entangle fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures, leading to restricted movement, injury, or even drowning. Plastic waste, which does not biodegrade, can break down into microplastics that are ingested by marine organisms, entering the food chain and potentially harming a wide range of species, including humans. Moreover, debris can damage coral reefs and seagrass beds, which are crucial habitats for many marine species. Regular clean-up efforts help mitigate these threats, promoting healthier and more resilient marine ecosystems.
Photo credit: Joseph Mankowski beneath Deerfield Beach Pier. © Copyright 2024 Christopher Duncan, All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Some textual content created through generative AI.