In the final analysis I'm an advocate for the health of the oceans - Hey, I am a diver!

I've been involved in the diving industry for 49 years and through it have developed my deep love  of the sea. I've been at one time or another involved in the study of marine life, marine mammals, marine archeology, and the sublime Zen of total immersion while diving.  But the debate over global climate changes, the health of the oceans, the over fishing issues, and the plundering of the mammalian species is just so huge. 

Most of the time I feel like the proverbial deer in the headlights.

I mean, sure there are things you can do, join, but it all seems so inconsequential - one person, one tiny voice in The Great Environmental Debate.

As divers I'm sure we all want to save the oceans for personal reasons but making a clear statement of your position on the issues is sometimes socially dangerous. What is your perspective on The Great Environmental Debate over the health of the oceans?  Are you a pragmatist,  a realist,  a Republican,  a Democrat,  an Industrialist ,,,,,,, and standing there between dives with your wet suite open the passions begin to rise and before you know it you're ready to cut the other person's hose!

I watch and take note.  Take note of the increase in freshwater sponges, the Gobies, and the rise and fall of the Zebra (& Quaga) mussels on the wrecks we regularly dive. I watch the news and try to weed out the propaganda to see the facts.  I voice my observations and opinions to whoever will listen but 'till now have been careful of taking a stance.  Now I have a platform.

Looking at the big picture, I've come to realize that the truth is that all aspects of both "sides" of The Great Environmental Debate are integral to our survival, the survival of the oceans, the origin of our species - our existence. Look around you.  Its a process. We are all in the process of making changes to our environment, some small changes and some huge changes.  But we have the technologies, the passions, and the intellect to effect changes that will benefit us all.  Each "side" of the debate is necessary.  There can be no single winner no matter how passionate, bellicose or overzealousness we get.  Both sides are necessary.  Nature has its own balances - its Yin and Yang, North and South poles.

We all have a say.  Those who hold fast to their beliefs to create something bigger than themselves whether wealth, industry, or saving the environment - even those who believe that we should go back to the stone age.  We all play a role in the process.  A magnet cannot exist without a North and a South pole, electricity cannot flow without an anode and a cathode.

So, choose a position, clearly state you beliefs and become a vocal part of The Great Debate. The "winner" will be the human race, life in the sea, and our planet.

Its ALL about diving!
Its ALL good.
SCOTT.