CompuServe Messages

>> Speaking of dumping, We don't refer to the seed structure placement for artificial reefs as "dumping" It's not just being politically correct in language but dumping, in respect to artificial reefs, refers to an old practice of throwing trash and any old debris overboard and then when caught trying to defend the practice as creating a fish habitat. Responsible practice, today, involves a predeployment underwater survey, application and obtaining state permits, complying with all maritime law, supervision by the US Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, and EPA, and finally, a post placement underwater survey with followup monitoring over time. This is not a simple irresponsible process! >>Does the artificial reef seem to actually increase the fish population? An excellent question. Many of us have our own opinions but, scientificly, the question is still unanswered. This is just one of the many questions THE REEF RESEARCH TEAM is collecting data to help the scientist gain answers. I can tell you that on a video taping mission of a monitoring study last year I documented on video the roe of fish. It was witnessed by my dive partner, a Florida Seagrant Scientist. He said it was the first documentation on an artificial reef of its kind. If that means increasing the fish population, then, so be it. Scientists are a peculiar, sensitive lot, and I've learned never to answer a question like this. I just collect the evidence and let the scientist draw the conclusions.