Posts by Lonny Behar

On this special day, as we celebrate the freedom and independence of our great nation, we also take a moment to reflect on the precious freedoms we enjoy as stewards of our magnificent oceans.

At Dive Conservation Group, we are committed to preserving and protecting the underwater wonders that grace our planet. We believe that the true essence of freedom lies in the ability to explore, appreciate, and safeguard the incredible biodiversity beneath the waves.

As we wave the flag of patriotism, let us remember that our oceans know no borders. They connect us all and provide life-sustaining benefits to every corner of the globe. From the majestic coral reefs to the vast open waters, the oceans are not only a source of awe-inspiring beauty but also a vital ecosystem that supports countless species and livelihoods.

On this Independence Day, we reaffirm our dedication to ocean conservation. Through our tireless efforts, we strive to protect marine habitats, combat pollution, promote sustainable fishing practices, and raise awareness about the urgent need to preserve our marine ecosystems for future generations.

Just as our forefathers fought for liberty, we continue the fight for the freedom of our oceans – freedom from pollution, overfishing, and the devastating effects of climate change. We stand united in our mission to ensure the oceans remain a beacon of life, inspiration, and harmony.

Today, as we come together to celebrate our nation’s independence, let us also celebrate the boundless beauty and resilience of our oceans. Let us appreciate the delicate balance of marine life and recognize our responsibility to be guardians of this underwater world.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all our supporters, volunteers, and partners who have joined us on this journey. Together, we can make a difference and create a sustainable future where the oceans thrive and flourish.

Happy Independence Day to all, and may our commitment to ocean conservation guide us towards a brighter and more abundant future!

Regards,
Lonny

This is a common question that many new scuba diver’s ask their fellow Scuba Instructors while they are in their training. While each individual is different, we try to offer options that help them adjust to exploring the world beneath the water.

Being a new diver can be an exciting and thrilling experience, but it can also come with its fair share of fears and apprehensions, especially if you’re afraid of the ocean. The vastness and unknown depths of the ocean can trigger feelings of anxiety and fear in even the most adventurous individuals. However, with the right mindset and some practical strategies, you can overcome your fear and fully enjoy the wonders that diving has to offer.

1. Education and Training: One of the best ways to overcome fear is through knowledge and understanding. Enroll in a reputable diving certification course where you’ll receive proper training and education on diving techniques, safety procedures, and equipment usage. The more you learn about the ocean, its ecosystems, and the technical aspects of diving, the more confident you’ll feel in the water.
2. Start in Calm and Controlled Environments: Begin your diving journey in calm and controlled environments such as a swimming pool or shallow, clear waters. These environments provide a controlled setting where you can gradually acclimate to being underwater and learn to manage your anxiety in a less intimidating environment.
3. Find a Supportive Dive Buddy: Diving with a trusted and experienced dive buddy can make a world of difference. Choose a partner who understands your fear and is patient and supportive. They can provide reassurance, guidance, and assistance when needed, helping you build confidence and trust in the diving experience.
4. Gradual Exposure: Take small steps and gradually expose yourself to the ocean environment. Start with shallow dives and gradually increase the depth and complexity of your dives as you become more comfortable. By gradually exposing yourself to new challenges, you’ll build confidence and overcome your fears one step at a time.
5. Visualization and Mental Preparation: Engage in visualization exercises to mentally prepare yourself for diving. Imagine yourself successfully navigating underwater, feeling calm and confident. Visualize overcoming your fears and enjoying the beauty of the underwater world. Positive visualization can help rewire your mind to associate the ocean with positive experiences rather than fear.
6. Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Proper breathing techniques are essential in managing anxiety and fear. Focus on slow, deep breaths while diving to calm your mind and body. Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to develop a sense of tranquility and control. By mastering these techniques, you can regain composure and stay focused underwater.
7. Support Groups and Professional Help: If your fear of the ocean persists, consider joining support groups or seeking professional help. Many divers have experienced similar fears and can provide valuable advice and support. Therapists or psychologists specializing in anxiety disorders can help you address and manage your fears effectively.

Remember that overcoming fear takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself throughout the process and celebrate even the smallest victories. As you gain experience and confidence, your fear will gradually diminish, and the breathtaking beauty of the ocean will become a source of joy and fascination rather than fear.

If you have any questions or want more information, reach out to us and we will help you find one of our Scuba Instructors in your area within the United States.

Living a life of ocean conservation involves making conscious choices and taking actions to protect and preserve our oceans. Here are some ways you can contribute:

1. Reduce your carbon footprint: Carbon emissions contribute to climate change and ocean acidification. Minimize your carbon footprint by conserving energy, using public transportation, and supporting renewable energy sources.
2. Minimize plastic use: Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine life. Reduce your plastic consumption by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers. Properly dispose of plastic waste and participate in beach or river cleanups.
3. Eat sustainable seafood: Choose sustainable seafood options that are caught or farmed responsibly. Look for seafood certifications such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC).
4. Support marine conservation organizations: Donate to or volunteer with reputable marine conservation organizations. These organizations work on research, advocacy, and conservation efforts to protect marine ecosystems.
5. Be mindful of your chemical usage: Chemicals from household cleaning products and personal care items can end up in the ocean through wastewater. Opt for environmentally friendly alternatives and dispose of chemicals properly.
6. Practice responsible boating and diving: When boating or diving, follow guidelines to avoid damaging marine habitats and ecosystems. Respect marine wildlife by keeping a safe distance and not interfering with their natural behaviors.
7. Educate others: Share your knowledge about ocean conservation with family, friends, and your community. Encourage others to make sustainable choices and raise awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans.

Remember, even small actions can make a difference when it comes to ocean conservation. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can contribute to the health and preservation of our precious marine ecosystems.

Lionfish, an invasive species native to the Indo-Pacific region, have had a significant impact on the Caribbean ecosystem. Since their introduction to the region in the 1980s, lionfish populations have exploded and become a major concern for the local marine life and coral reefs.

Here are some of the ways in which lionfish are affecting the Caribbean:

1. Predation: Lionfish are voracious predators and have few natural predators in the Caribbean. They consume a wide variety of prey, including small fish and invertebrates, many of which are essential for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Their predatory behavior disrupts the natural food chain and can lead to the depletion of native fish populations.
2. Competition: Lionfish are highly adaptable and can outcompete native species for food and habitat. They reproduce rapidly and have a high reproductive capacity, which allows their populations to grow quickly and overwhelm local ecosystems. This can lead to a decline in native fish species, impacting the biodiversity of the region.
3. Coral reef degradation: Lionfish feed on small herbivorous fish that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy coral reefs. Without these fish, algae can overgrow and suffocate coral, leading to reef degradation. As coral reefs are vital habitats for many marine species and contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem, the impact of lionfish predation on reefs is a significant concern.
4. Economic impact: The presence of lionfish in the Caribbean has also affected local economies dependent on fishing and tourism. Lionfish are not commercially fished due to their venomous spines and low market demand, which makes their proliferation a burden on local fishermen. Additionally, the damage caused to coral reefs can negatively impact tourism, which relies heavily on healthy marine ecosystems.

Efforts have been made to control lionfish populations in the Caribbean, including promoting lionfish hunting and consumption, encouraging the establishment of marine protected areas, and raising awareness about the issue. However, managing the lionfish invasion remains a ongoing challenge requiring continued collaboration and vigilance.

There is a common misconception that only Divers can really support Ocean Conservation efforts, but that is far from the case. While diving provides unique opportunities for direct engagement with marine environments, there are numerous impactful actions that can be taken outside of the water. Many of these actions can provide significant relief on the hydrologic systems. As Dr. Tracy Fanara states, “Everything is Connected.”

1. Reduce plastic use: Plastics are a major contributor to ocean pollution. Minimize your consumption of single-use plastics such as bottles, bags, and straws. Opt for reusable alternatives and recycle properly. Participate in beach cleanups to remove plastic debris from shorelines.
2. Support sustainable seafood: Overfishing is a significant threat to marine ecosystems. Choose sustainably sourced seafood by looking for eco-certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or Seafood Watch recommendations. Encourage local restaurants and stores to offer sustainable seafood options.
3. Educate and raise awareness: Learn about the importance of ocean conservation and share your knowledge with others. Raise awareness about the challenges facing the oceans, such as pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. Use social media, community events, or educational platforms to spread the word.
4. Advocate for policy changes: Support policies that promote sustainable practices and protect the oceans. Write to your elected representatives, sign petitions, and participate in campaigns that advocate for stronger regulations and conservation measures. Your voice can make a difference.
5. Support marine conservation organizations: Many nonprofits and organizations are dedicated to protecting and restoring marine environments. Donate your time, money, or resources to support their initiatives. These organizations work on projects such as habitat restoration, research, and public awareness campaigns.

Non-divers can actively contribute to ocean conservation efforts and help protect the health and biodiversity of our oceans.

Coral reefs are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea” because of their remarkable diversity and ecological importance. They provide habitat for a quarter of all marine species and support the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. However, these fragile ecosystems are facing significant threats from climate change, overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.

According to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), coral reefs are among the most vulnerable ecosystems to climate change. Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification caused by greenhouse gas emissions are already causing coral bleaching and death, with predictions that up to 90% of the world’s coral reefs could be lost by 2050.

The decline of coral reefs has significant implications for both marine and human life. Coral reefs provide critical services, such as protecting coastlines from storm surges and erosion, supporting fisheries, and promoting tourism. The loss of these services could have severe economic consequences, particularly for developing countries that rely heavily on coral reef ecosystems for food security and income.

Conserving coral reefs requires a multi-faceted approach that includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving water quality, and implementing effective fisheries management. There is growing recognition of the need to protect coral reef ecosystems, and international efforts are underway to address these challenges.

In 2018, the International Coral Reef Initiative launched the “30 by 30” initiative, which aims to protect 30% of the world’s coral reefs by 2030. The initiative has gained support from over 50 countries and organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme and the World Wildlife Fund.

Individual actions can also make a difference in conserving coral reefs. Simple actions like using reef-safe sunscreen and reducing plastic waste can help reduce the impact of human activities on coral reef ecosystems.

In conclusion, the conservation of coral reef ecosystems is essential to protect the biodiversity and the many services they provide. Urgent action is needed to address the threats facing these fragile ecosystems, and the global community must work together to protect and restore coral reefs for the benefit of current and future generations.

References:

1. IPCC. (2019). Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate. https://www.ipcc.ch/srocc/
2. Burke, L., Reytar, K., Spalding, M., & Perry, A. (2011). Reefs at Risk Revisited. World Resources Institute. https://www.wri.org/publication/reefs-risk-revisited
3. International Coral Reef Initiative. (2021). 30 by 30 Initiative. https://www.icriforum.org/30by30-initiative
4. World Wildlife Fund. (2021). Why Coral Reefs Matter. https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/why-coral-reefs-matter

Dive Conservation Group (USA) renews Dive Equipment Manufacturers Association (DEMA) membership for the 2022 Calendar Year. DEMA enables proactive dive industry engagement affording opportunities and exciting experiences for our dive customer base. Dive Conservation Group uses these engagements, such as DEMA Show, to network and build relationships with US and International partners for Ocean Conservation-based activities and travel experiences.

Dive Conservation Group (USA) is an active DEMA Gold Member.

For more information about DEMA, visit https://www.dema.org, or about the DEMA Show visit https://www.demashow.com

Dive Conservation Group (USA) has partnered with PADI Aware Foundation and has officially committed to being 100% AWARE supporting multiple PADI Mission Hub programs within the United States and the Caribbean regions.

As an Ocean Conservation organization, we have been committed to supporting the health and welfare of our planet’s delicate ocean ecosystems, but a partnership with a Scuba Diving Certification Agency is the first step toward bridging the goals of our organization with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) AWARE Foundation.

PADI AWARE Foundation has documented educating 1 million divers on the environmental threats facing the ocean and how to take action, making this the largest and quickest growing citizen science movement on the planet.

We ask everyone to learn about the issues associated with our impacts and take steps toward making our communities environmentally friendly. Even if you are not living next to the ocean, you can still help make the environment better. If you don’t know where to begin, contact us for more information.

As part of our partnership, all PADI Certification Cards are automatically released with the PADI Aware series graphics identifying the diver as a supporter of Dive Conservation Group’s and PADI’s 100% AWARE goals.

For more information on PADI Aware Foundation, visit https://www.padiaware.org

For more information on PADI, please visit https://www.padi.com

Dive Conservation Group (USA) in collaboration with Land and Sea Athletics (San Diego, CA) and Odyssea By Fletcher (San Diego, CA) are attending the 2021 Dive Equipment Manufacturers Association (DEMA) Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center November 15-19, 2021. This event sponsors a series of Dive Professional education seminars specific to enhancing your experiences as dive industry customers. DEMA Show also affords opportunities to network with other Dive Centers, Professionals and Manufacturers to improve the dive industry by bringing deals to customers on equipment and travel.

Dive Conservation Group will also be meeting with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Territory Directors as the team begins planning for 2022.

Dive Conservation Group is an active 2021 DEMA Gold Member.

For more information about DEMA, visit https://www.dema.org, or about the DEMA Show visit https://www.demashow.com

For more information about PADI, visit https://www.padi.com

The Dive Conservation Group team will be joining Crew3000 hosted by Plaza Beach Resort Bonaire and Toucan Diving Bonaire to perform Ocean Conservation work and complete PADI Scuba Training activities from October 9-16, 2021.

For more information about Crew 3000, please visit https://www.crew3000.org