Ackerman-Estvold’s Post

The diving adventures continue!! This time it was a trip to the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire. With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and endless shore diving options, Bonaire is truly one of the last unspoiled places on earth. You know me... new location + local conservation = new certification. So naturally, I was super stoked to undertake the PADI Invasive Lionfish Tracker certification. :) After some buoyancy tests, target practice, and being told that students don't ever score on their first hunt (um hi, challenge accepted), my instructor and I descended down the reef... 30... 60... 90... slowing at a depth of 100 feet. Since lionfish are nocturnal predators, they spend much of the daytime chilling under rock ledges and corals, deep on the reef wall. It wasn't too long until I spotted the feathery venomous spines of this husky fella peeking out from a crevice. With buoyancy in check, I fired my spear and hit my target. But this may have been the easiest part. Not only was I in for a good fight with the lionfish, but also caught something else coming from below me - a large green moray eel. Although I was unwillingly prepared to let him steal my catch, I managed to get the lionfish into the Zookeeper and safely ascended to celebrate on the surface. Back at the dive shop, I let the instructors gawk before I learned how to safely fillet the lionfish and prepared us some fresh ceviche for an evening snack. DELICIOUS!! The next big question is... WHERE TO NEXT??!! *FUN FACT: Spearfishing was banned in Bonaire in 1971. However, with the arrival of invasive lionfish in 2009, a special spear called the E.L.F. (which stands for Eliminate Lionfish) was created to minimize the impact on the reef while hunting the lionfish. #PADI #lionfish #invasivespecies #conservationdiving #seasims #Bonaire

As Florida's population grows, so does the demand for efficient storm systems to capture and redirect excess water. Charles Souder of Florida Blackwater Diving swears by our Cherne, an Oatey Co. Company pipe plugs for his inland diving projects. It's not just about blocking water; it’s about safety, durability, and premium performance. Our plugs are instrumental in redirecting excess water while ensuring the safest working conditions. Souder attests, "Cherne pipe plugs are built better than any other." Read the full case study here: https://bit.ly/3V2161h

As Florida's population grows, so does the demand for efficient storm systems to capture and redirect excess water. Charles Souder of Florida Blackwater Diving swears by our Cherne pipe plugs for his inland diving projects. It's not just about blocking water; it’s about safety, durability, and premium performance. Our plugs are instrumental in redirecting excess water while ensuring the safest working conditions. Souder attests, "Cherne pipe plugs are built better than any other." Read the full case study here: https://bit.ly/3V2161h

Tips for Safe Navigation Around Anglers When boating, it's vital to respect anglers' lines and activities to ensure everyone's safety. In South Florida, kite fishing involves lines hanging from kites flown far from the boat. Keep a wide distance from these kites to avoid entanglement. For longline trolling, boats deploy lines hundreds of meters behind them. If you see a fast-moving boat, maintain at least a 300-meter distance when passing behind. Planer boards, used on lakes and rivers, have lines attached to boards extending sideways from the boat. Slow down and keep a wide berth to avoid snagging these lines. When anglers hook strong fish, they can bend rods and pull out a lot of line. Pay attention to other boats and give anglers fighting fish plenty of space. Don't forget to visit Boating Magazine's website or click the link for more information. 🌊⚓️ https://lnkd.in/dRGB55TX #Boating #Fishing #SafeNavigation #OysterHarborsMarine #FishingTips #SafeBoating 

🔒🏞️ Camping Safety Tips for Your Family 🏞️🔒 As the camping season approaches, it's crucial to prioritize safety to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for your family. Prudential Alarm is here to help with our latest article, "Keeping Your Family Safe While Camping: Tips from Prudential Alarm." In this comprehensive guide, we cover: - How to choose a safe campsite - Prepping for emergencies - Essential fire safety practices - Wildlife awareness and preparedness - Personal and weather safety tips - And more... Stay informed and prepared. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/4c7FK81 #CampingSafety #FamilySafety #OutdoorAdventure #PrudentialAlarm #SafetyTips

Setting Up Camp: Essential Tips for Pitching Your Roof Tent Like a Pro Pitching your roof tent efficiently ensures a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Follow these essential tips to set up your roof tent like a pro: 1. Choose a Flat Surface: Pick a level area, free of rocks and debris. 🏞️ This ensures stability and comfort during your stay. 2. Secure Your Vehicle: Park on stable ground and engage the brake. 🚗 This prevents any unexpected movement while setting up your tent. 3. Follow Instructions: Review setup guidelines carefully. 🔧 Each roof tent model may have specific installation steps to ensure proper assembly. 4. Stabilize Properly: Use anchoring techniques for security. 🏕️ This includes properly securing the tent to your vehicle or roof rack system to prevent shifting or movement during use. Mastering the art of pitching your roof tent will enhance your camping experience, allowing you to relax and unwind in the great outdoors with ease and confidence. #Rooftent #camping #outdooradventure #adventureawaits

🛑 A temporary closure for collecting Abalone and diving for other benthic aquatic animals is in place in waters in the state’s South East with immediate effect following a positive detection of Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG) in wild abalone. On 14 May 2024 the presence of the herpes virus which causes AVG was confirmed in abalone collected by a recreational fisher at Stanway Point near Southend. In consultation with industry, PIRSA has implemented a closure area to reduce the risk of human-induced spread of AVG from the outbreak site while the extent of the recent outbreak is established. The closure area extends from approximately 750m southeast of Blowhole Rd, Beachport to a location on Canunda Beach approximately 19km southeast of Cape Buffon, Southend and approximately 10 nautical miles out to sea. Within this area, the collection of abalone by diving or collecting shells from the beach area, as well as the collection of benthic aquatic animals such as Rock Lobster and Turbo shells by diving are prohibited. The collection of pipis is still allowed. The closure is a temporary arrangement until 30 June 2024 while the extent of this latest outbreak is determined. AVG can spread through the movement of: • infected abalone or abalone product (tissue, offal, shell or mucus) • diving equipment (including wetsuits) • people who have come into contact with infected abalone or bottom habitat. AVG has no known effects on human health. More info can be found at www.pir.sa.gov.au

Ever considered the planning intricacies behind a great pool party? Diving right in, pool parties are beautifully complex - they blend comfort, entertainment, and safety under the summer sun. Here's why: 1. Unique Aqua-Fun: Pool parties provide an entirely different atmosphere compared to typical indoor gatherings. They come with an inherent sense of relaxation punctuated by invigorating activities; think of the flip flop tossing competitions, watery hide and seek, or synchronized swimming challenges. 2. Serious Safety: Amidst all the fun, safety protocols should never be neglected. The presence of a certified lifeguard, caution around the pool's slippery edges, and appropriate use of pool equipment are critical. Remember, safety can never be too emphasized in aquatic environments. 3, Impactful Themes: A well-thought-out theme can elevate a pool party from 'fun' to 'unforgettable'. From tropical paradises and sailor adventures to retro pool-diner parties, the options are endless. 4. Crisp Coordination: Hosting a pool party requires an intricate balance of several elements. Efficient coordination owes itself to an understanding of guest preferences, weather conditions, and timing the grand splash. In essence, while pool parties are a gateway to aquatic enjoyment, their execution lies in thoughtful planning and keen attention to detail. Now, who's ready to dive in and beat the summer heat?

The diving community is irate at the lack of decisiveness to properly protect the conservation areas around Malta’s shores and the welfare of the thousands of divers that visit them. The immediate shores around the Maltese islands have 15 sites recognised as conservation areas, a handful of which are larger than two football pitches. These are mainly situated around a variety of wrecks, consisting of ships that were scuttled as diving attractions, World War II airplanes, and other wrecks that ended up at the bottom of the sea for different reasons. Many of these near-shore sites are an essential part of Malta’s diving industry product, as well as recreational places for local divers. In contrast to other diving destinations around the world, easy access to these dive sites enables tourists to make the most of their time when visiting the islands. The problem is that these dives sites are subject to inadequate or non-existent management and enforcement measures concerning fishing. While recognised as conservation areas and most often forming part of Natura 2000 Marine Protected Areas, the sites around wrecks and artificial reefs at times constitute a free-for-all. #malta #marineconservation #protectedareas #blueeconomy #travelandtourism #conservation #destinationmanagement Raymond Bondin Ray Bondin PhD JoAnn CASSAR Giusy Cardia Daniela Grixti M. Roberta Mallia David Grima Thiago Beraldo Anna Spenceley Jeremy Sampson Ante Mandić Manos VOUGIOUKAS Leanna Wigboldus Rachel Dodds, PhD Stephen Woodley

how do you think spearfishing sports? Spearfishing can be considered a sport, but with some key distinctions from typical sports: • Unique Competition: Spearfishing competitions test a different skillset than most sports. Freediving breath-holding techniques, knowledge of fish behavior, underwater hunting skills, and precise speargun marksmanship are all essential for success. • Focus on Sustainability: Unlike many competitive sports, spearfishing tournaments often emphasize sustainable practices. Rules may specify allowable fish species, size limits, and responsible fishing methods to ensure conservation of fish stocks. • Mind-Body Challenge: Spearfishing pushes both mental and physical limits. Apnea (breath-holding) dives require focus and control. Underwater maneuvering tests physical strength and endurance. The entire experience demands presence of mind and split-second decision making. • Ethical Considerations: Spearfishing raises ethical concerns among some, who question the practice of hunting fish with a spear. Sustainable spearfishing practices and responsible management are crucial to address these concerns. Overall, spearfishing combines competitive elements with unique physical and mental demands. However, the ethical considerations and emphasis on sustainability set it apart from many traditional sports. #diving #scuba #scubadiving #divtop #sea #underwater #spearfishing #fishing #ocean #watersports #freediving #oceanic #divingbuoy #divingfloat #divingsurfacemarkerbuoy #divingsausage #scubapro #oceanic #mares #snorkeling #divingsafety #divingEquipment #divingaccessory #divinglanyard #divingknife #divingmask #divingfin #divingwetsuit #divingglove #divinglight #freediving #divingsafetyproduct #DEMAshow #divingknife #divingfin #divingmask #watersports