[Coral-List] [SPAM] More on interesting interactions between divers and reefs

[David.A.Gulko at hawaii.gov]

Aloha folks,

A number of us out here have raised concerns where large pieces of 
uncoated lead are used as anchor blocks for boat moorings and scientific 
equipment because of concerns related to algal over-growth and grazing by 
herbivores serving as a pathway for movement of lead up through the food 
chain.  We've recommended coating of large lead anchor structures prior to 
deployment underwater. 

- Dave

Dave Gulko, Aquatic Biologist IV - Coral Reefs
Division of Aquatic Resources
Hawai?i Department of Land & Natural Resources
1151 Punchbowl Street, room 330
Honolulu, HI  96813

(808) 587-0318 (o), (808) 587-0115 (fax)
david.a.gulko at hawaii.gov

NOTE: The opinions and/or information presented in this email do not 
necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Land & Natural 
Resources or the State of Hawai?i.  Unless otherwise stated, this email is 
for use only by the individual(s) listed above.



Charles Delbeek <delbeek at waquarium.org> 
Sent by: coral-list-bounces at coral.aoml.noaa.gov
12/05/07 12:17 PM

To
John Ware <jware at erols.com>
cc
"coral-list at coral.aoml.noaa.gov" <coral-list at coral.aoml.noaa.gov>
Subject
Re: [Coral-List] [SPAM] More on interesting interactions between divers 
and     reefs






John Ware wrote:
> Dear List,
>
> True there has been quite a number of studies on the interaction of 
> divers with reefs.  The one that I have not seen is the effect of diver 
> lead.  (Yes, I know that lead and lead salts are generally considered 
> insoluble).
>
> However, a year or two ago I was told that the Island of Bonaire Marine 
> Park Authority was considering a ban on uncoated lead weights.  All 
> divers would be required to use coated weights. 
>
> This might be one of those 'urban myths'.  Perhaps someone from the MPA 
> could respond.
>
> Where does it end??
>
> John
>
> 
Actually, I would think looking at the amount of lead weight from 
abandoned fishing lines would have a more significant potential impact 
than diver's weights. For example, one of our divers recently took part 
in a lead fishing weight recovery effort with 10 other divers. With 11 
people doing two dives each, they recovered over 220 pounds of lead 
fishing weights at one dive site on Oahu.

Aloha!

-- 
J. Charles Delbeek M.Sc.
Aquarium Biologist III
Waikiki Aquarium
University of Hawaii
2777 Kalakaua Ave.
Honolulu, HI, 96815

(808) 923-9741 VOICE
(808) 923-1771 FAX

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