Pool time, metal work, and ropeless lobster fishing

Online   Feb 25, 2021

Scuba Shack Weekly – Volume 4, Number 8

I didn’t think it would ever stop snowing last week. Every time I cleaned off my car or deck, it seemed there was more of the white stuff to move. Does anyone have a prediction on when the last of the snow will happen this year?

Last weekend we were able to get back to the pool in New Britain and complete several refresher sessions. We will continue to try to work these sessions into the schedule. Also, Penny completed her confined open water training and is now off to a warmer climate to do her open water certification dives.

Monty and the gang were in the repair shop all day Saturday getting the equipment ready for an upcoming Ice Diver course. Welding, cutting and grinding metal made for quite the experience in the service bay. Stay tuned for an update in early March on the training. Even though we are looking forward to spring, we want the ice to last just a little bit longer.

Last week I sat in on a presentation by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute that centered on how to save the North Atlantic Right Whale. The presentation talked about the numbers, threats and efforts to protect them. One of the major issues for this species is entanglement. Entanglement can come from the lines tied to the buoys on lobster traps. There is some new technology out there that supports ropeless lobster traps. Interestingly there was a story on NPR that talked about this approach.

The North Atlantic Right Whale is one of the most endangered species on the planet. Every effort to save them is needed.

Time to say goodbye to February 2021.

Take care,

Jeff