Weather

[liverock]

Looks like another week of terrible weather, somebody tell mother nature to give us a break!!

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tbw/cgi-bin/marine.pl?node=TBW&office=TBW&state=FL&cwfPhrase=853&swrPhrase=SOUTHWEST+FLORIDA&nowPhrase=853

TBS

[patsan]

I'm sorry for you and all the people waiting for their rock! :(

[Nirol]

Mother nature must just want me to be better prepared...so I will continue to wait....and get ready. , Kansas has weather in the mid 70's and sunshine... for the first time I can say I wish I could trade you... so you could go get some rock for me!

[Sierra]

wednesday doesnt look too bad lol

[patsan]

Originally posted by Sierra
wednesday doesnt look too bad lol

They have lots of nice sunny days or days when the seas aren't bad, but many times they can't see 2 feet in front of them when they get down to dive.:(

[Nirol]

Originally posted by patsan
They have lots of nice sunny days or days when the seas aren't bad, but many times they can't see 2 feet in front of them when they get down to dive.:(
Maybe if they can't see 2 feet, they'll get me something really cool and not know it! HA!

[Sierra]

Originally posted by patsan
They have lots of nice sunny days or days when the seas aren't bad, but many times they can't see 2 feet in front of them when they get down to dive.:(

yes pat - I used to live in sarasota (just south of tampa) for about 10 years. I'm used to the weather and know how it can effect diving conditions.

I was just teasing... I've been patient getting ready to order, I understand the limitations in regard to weather, water clarity, and man power - I've got a couple bins full of fresh patience ready just in case :lol: what I think I really need is an auto top off for my patience level.

Just excited that I finally got my order in.

[Nirol]

Originally posted by Sierra
I've got a couple bins full of fresh patience ready just in case :lol: what I think I really need is an auto top off for my patience level.

Is there a test kit for this? I think mine might be runnning a little low!

[Sierra]

Ussually no test kit is needed as its easy to tell to the naked eye when the patience level is dropping... when mine gets a bit low I just add beer. depending on your chemistry tho you might choose to dose with wine or other liquers. its a matter of taste really.

a breathalizer will be a good test to determine weather you have dosed enough or too much. ;)

[Nirol]

well, I don't own a breathalizer... so I'll just ask my wife to double check my readings... she usually has a good eye for these kinds of things!

[patsan]

Originally posted by Nirol
well, I don't own a breathalizer... so I'll just ask my wife to double check my readings... she usually has a good eye for these kinds of things!

My husband used to give all the drunks the breathalyzer tests! Brought back a lot of memories hearing that! :)

[AquAsylum]

Sierra-

I'm in Sarasota- going to pick up my rock in person hopefully at the end of April. They told me to call ahead to find out whether the weather has been kind enough to warrant the looooong trip up there. I am not familiar with what conditions produce a strong rock load, so please enlighten me!

[Sierra]

My dad still lives in Florida - when I ask him how the weather is - he sayd WONDERFUL! and as far as on land goes to my knowledge it has been nice...

But Wind makes the water choppy - which can be unsafe for people to boat and dive - also like patsan said after storms and such the water clarity is crummy - so you cant see when you are underwater very well - also dangerous.

hopefully the wind will die down the water will clear up - the seas will be smooth and calm and they can make some productive dives soon - I imagine not being able to dive hurts them more then us therefore its a crummy deal across the board.

Good luck with your rock! I miss Sarasota sometimes - but never the humidity. I lived off of fruitville road for many years - My Family Ran what used to be Flying Eagle Farm - which I understand is under "development" (putting in a subdivision I think)- My fondest memories of Sarasota were St. Armands Circle during festivals - we would drink and dance to UB40 tunes :lol:

[AquAsylum]

The weather here HAS been great- I grew up east of 75 off of Bee Ridge and am now close to 41- I never knew why Sarasota was called the "air conditioned city" but I sure do now- the breeze we get is great!

Thanks for the info- ironic that wind can be a problem even out of hurricane season.

Good luck with YOUR rock- you're way ahead of me. I'll keep an eye out for your progress!

[mhe]

So,

Does anyone know if the TBS folks got out at all last week?

Anyone get any new LR?

Seemed pretty snotty, with a couple of decent days but perhaps too stirred up to make a successful dive?

- Michael

[Sierra]

Originally posted by mhe
perhaps too stirred up to make a successful dive?


you said it ;)

I ordered Tuesday and have not yet even recieved a confirmation call or email. I'm hoping against hope that they are busy filling orders. I'll call monday and see whats up.

[BlitzK]

I was there today and picked some up... they said they havnt been out much lately. (something along the lines of 4 times in the last month?)....

They didn't have the best selection.... I'll be spending this week picking out the aiptasia.

[Sierra]

that doesnt sound good - maybe I should cancel my order and wait and order later when they have nice stock and the wait isnt so long.

[mhe]

I'm thinking that canceling wouldn't help you.

I can not blalme them for wanting to stay safe - in fact I feel for them and their ability to pay their bills given this weather!

And I've seen no indication that they're slipping their quality due to this short term problem - I suspect that they'll ship only "TBS quality" rock as they get it available. It'd be a huge mistake on their part to allow themselves to ship "lower quality" stuff due to a short term weather situation.

But then again it's their business, not mine - but if it was me I'd send an email stating that I was willing to wait for "good stuff", to make clear that time's not your most important issue.

At any rate puling your order doesn't seem to be a likely way to get the LR you want - unless you're going to a different vendor (and I can't see how their weather's a lot different then the weather for the TBS folks). And from what I can tell there's no vendor out there quite like TBS...

Just my $0.02 this Saturday night...

- Michael

[Sierra]

I am in no way bashing TBS - I havent even seen their rock (other than in pictures) and I'm a big fan and talk about it to everyone I meet. I wont go to another vendor... I will wait. But I'm a broke reefette and The reason I chose TBS is the great quality - I can expect bang for my buck!

I just worry is all - esspecially when I placed my order several days ago and havent had a phone call or email or any sort of confirmation even though after submitting my order it said to expect them to be in contact soon to confirm the order and details of shipping. I'm doing my best to be patient about that and not call them as I know they likely are busy and have a good reason for not getting back to me yet.

I lived in Florida for many years and understand weather restrictions, and I am in no way saying I want them to endanger themselves over rock. THis is harder on them then it is on any of their customers.

I will order from TBS - I just wonder if My timing is off. thats all.

Then again - It took a LONG time for me to talk my husband into letting me steal bill money to buy rock with - If I hold off on my order I may lose my husbands interest. :D

[smcnally]

Originally posted by Sierra
I just worry is all - esspecially when I placed my order several days ago and havent had a phone call or email or any sort of confirmation even though after submitting my order it said to expect them to be in contact soon to confirm the order and details of shipping. I'm doing my best to be patient about that and not call them as I know they likely are busy and have a good reason for not getting back to me yet.
Sierra, call them. I had a hard time dealing with the waiting and frequently e-mailed Richard asking for updates. He'll let you know what's up. The thing is that they will not call you until they are ready to ship your rock. They understang that people want the rock badly, and were very nice every time I called. For me, it was just nice to hear them on the phone syaing "We haven't forgot about you..." Towards the ends, I got very antsy to get my last 1/2 and they didn't get to ship it because of personal stuff the time they said they would. When I didn't hear from them, Richard actually told me to call Mary at home to find out what was up (Which I would never do). Mary called me about an hour later and appologised. She still got it to me that day, it was just a later pick up. They are great people, but busy. So if you don't call them, you will just sit there and wonder. And if you are anything like me, it will eat at you and you'll start to go NUTZ. I've found the best time to reach them at the store number is during the week around 9-10 am.

[BlitzK]

Looks like Monday and Tuesday might be ok to take the dingy out and collect some stones...

The bottom might be stirred up quite a bit though, winds have been 20+ kts and the seas rough the past few days

[Nirol]

I just got an email from Richard:
"Good to here from you...there will be satisfaction this week....looks like diveable weather for the first time in a long time"
<a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008_ZN' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_55.gif' alt='Clapping Hands' border=0></a>

[pws]

Hmm. I want to order but don't want to wait for a month or more. Anyone know about how long it takes to get an order? I would even pay more to be bumped up :).

[Nirol]

Depends on the weather...and it has been unusally bad. The web site says they normally ship the next day. I ordered 3-7, but I'm patient as I want this rock.

[Sierra]

well I heard from them yesterday morning - and they told me they were diving this week! woohooo!

everyone is buzzing with excitement in my house.

[BlitzK]

Not to burst your bubble.... but the weather has been bad here! Yesturday was strong winds... today is VERY strong winds, severe tstorm moving in....

They had one, maybe 2 days of decent diving weather.... hope they were able to get out there!



on another note, I think I've killed most of the aip that I've seen... and lots of small featherdusters have been comming out, a few pieces of cup coral, etc... starting to look good!

[liverock]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by BlitzK
Not to burst your bubble.... but the weather has been bad here! Yesturday was strong winds... today is VERY strong winds, severe tstorm moving in....

They had one, maybe 2 days of decent diving weather.... hope they were able to get out there!



on another note, I think I've killed most of the aip that I've seen... and lots of small featherdusters have been comming out, a few pieces of cup coral, etc... starting to look good!



That is a FACT....we tried every day this week, the gulf is so turbid you can not see one inch on the bottom, and it gets worse......SMALL CRAFT WARNINGS again today....

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tbw/cgi-bin/marine.pl?node=TBW&office=TBW&state=FL&cwfPhrase=853&swrPhrase=SOUTHWEST+FLORIDA&nowPhrase=853

is going to be puked until the middle of next week.....

we do have keys rock in stock, but it is also going fast, we will most likely make another trip to the keys to harvest more, "cause it ain"t gonna happen here.....

TBS

[JEFFTHEREEFER]

Hey guys, and gals,
I just wanted to add my .02. I have had my TBS for over a year now. I am sooooooooo glad that I waited for it. Everyone at TBS was so great in filling my order. Im so glad I didnt buy rock from the LFS. This is my second attempt at saltwater. My first attempt took me over a year to get things stable with LFS rock. I had constant ph problems. My tank with TBS rock is a different story. After my cycle I have done nothing other than water changes and normal additive. I am very happy with it and if I ever start another tank or upgrade. I will be doing business with TBS only.

[tjhoya]

Hey
So, I received part one of the package for my tank--after waiting a few weeks (that felt like an eternity) but WOW was I pleased with what I got. And that was supposed to be the "boring" part. I am already glued to the tank every night after work to see the color and the "hitchhikers" (a few black urchins, snails, crabs, plenty of filter feeders, worms, and small stars in the sand).

Anyway, I'm ready for the second half, but am confident that they will only send quality stuff--the "base" rock I received was difficult to aquascape b/c it's hard to decide which side to hide.

Not that I'm not eagerly awaiting. . ..

TJ

[Nirol]

Originally posted by tjhoya
Hey
So, I received part one of the package for my tank--after waiting a few weeks (that felt like an eternity) but WOW was I pleased with what I got. And that was supposed to be the "boring" part. I am already glued to the tank every night after work to see the color and the "hitchhikers" (a few black urchins, snails, crabs, plenty of filter feeders, worms, and small stars in the sand).

Anyway, I'm ready for the second half, but am confident that they will only send quality stuff--the "base" rock I received was difficult to aquascape b/c it's hard to decide which side to hide.

Not that I'm not eagerly awaiting. . ..

TJ Congrats! Can we see some pics? When did you order?

[Nirol]

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tbw/cgi-bin/marine.pl?node=TBW&office=TBW&state=FL&cwfPhrase=853&swrPhrase=SOUTHWEST+FLORIDA&nowPhrase=853
Looks Better! Maybe they can go diving! On my 33rd day of waiting patiently....:crazy1:

[tuck64]

You're only on your 33rd day? You got a ways to go!!! I'm on my 73rd day (part two package). Don't worry, after the 40th day or so you'll stop thinking "today's the day!!". ;)


Tucker

[Nirol]

Originally posted by tuck64
You're only on your 33rd day? You got a ways to go!!! I'm on my 73rd day (part two package). Don't worry, after the 40th day or so you'll stop thinking "today's the day!!". ;)


Tucker
Ohmygosh! 73 days....and you haven't given up?...I think my patience quota will have run out! That is not good news! :eek2:

[scubaguy699]

Tucker,
Are you 73 days from the time you placed the original order, or 73 days from the time you placed the order for the second half? I am on my 21st day from the time I ordered my second half, I can't imagine the patience you must have. But then, you know what they say "good things come to those who wait."

[patsan]

Tucker got his part 1 the beginning of January. He had a pretty rough time with the cycle. TBS was even going to replace the entire shipment if he wanted. He choose to stick it out even though he lost most of the life on the rock.
He did have to take one huge rock out of the tank all together and just wants TBS to replace that one rock when he gets part 2. (add that one rock to his part 2 order)
He just hasn't been able to get part 2.....so he's waiting 73 days (more now) since he ordered his part 2.:(

[tuck64]

^^^ Yea, What she said.

[patsan]

Originally posted by tuck64
^^^ Yea, What she said.

Well hopefully they'll get out diving this week Tucker, and you'll finally be able to get the rest of your package! I think you and Ben have waited the longest. (but Ben did turn it down once)

[Nirol]

Part two doesn't count... At least they have something to look at...I just have water...:p Of course when I get part one, I will want to be first on the list for part two! :D

[patsan]

Originally posted by Nirol
Part two doesn't count... At least they have something to look at...I just have water...:p Of course when I get part one, I will want to be first on the list for part two! :D
He's also paid for it in full...THAT makes a big difference right there. You haven't laid out a dime yet to TBS.;)

[Nirol]

Originally posted by patsan
He's also paid for it in full...THAT makes a big difference right there. You haven't laid out a dime yet to TBS.;)
Ouch! Hey, I'm not bashing TBS by any means! I know they have the best rock and they can't control the weather, so I am waiting patiently...and I know the plan is to fulfill part twos first. They have my order, my credit card, and my blessing to send it and then call...nothing else I can do...I have pics and a story all set to go...

[BlitzK]

We've had a few days of nice WX and looks like a few of the next days will be nice as well.

I'm still busy trying to kill all of my aiptasia

[patsan]

Originally posted by Nirol
Ouch! Hey, I'm not bashing TBS by any means! I know they have the best rock and they can't control the weather, so I am waiting patiently...and I know the plan is to fulfill part twos first. They have my order, my credit card, and my blessing to send it and then call...nothing else I can do...I have pics and a story all set to go...

Didn't mean it to be an ouch! You took what I said the wrong way!;)
Hopefully you'll get yours soon too. There's lots of people waiting and maybe a bunch will be happy in the very near future.

[Nirol]

Originally posted by patsan
Didn't mean it to be an ouch! You took what I said the wrong way!

I know you weren't trying to be mean. I have read all of your posts and know that. I was just trying to make a tough issue a little lighter that's all...but I do thnk it would be easier to be patient waiting on part two and have sand, some rocks, and some life emerging than to watch algae grow in my empty tank. I can take a picture of that algae I guess...:(

[patsan]

Being I have been on both ends of the stick waiting for both parts, I think I have to disagree a little with you on that one.
It's just as hard waiting for part 2 as part 1....because once you get the part 1 and the tank is cycled, you need that clean up crew and you're more or less left in limbo until you get the rest of your order. You can't add anything to the tank. So it's like....okay, I'm half way there, but now can't move on until I get the rest.
You question whether you should feed the tank or not....you don't want to buy a cleanup crew because you know any day you could get the call and will get all you need....
Heck, I guess it's just as frustrating as waiting for part 1..but once you get the completed order, you can then plan for future things you're going to do with your tank.
I guess I feel I'd rather not be left in limbo waiting to complete it...and although none of us like to wait, if I did it again, I'd rather wait for part 1 more than part 2.
Still hoping you won't have to wait much longer! (you should have ordered before your BD):)

[Nirol]

Originally posted by patsan
Being I have been on both ends of the stick waiting for both parts, I think I have to disagree a little with you on that one.
It's just as hard waiting for part 2 as part 1....because once you get the part 1 and the tank is cycled, you need that clean up crew Still hoping you won't have to wait much longer! (you should have ordered before your BD):)
Good point! I would need that clean up crew. I set my BD as the day to order...I knew it would be awhile before I got it. I was just thrilled to get to the day I could make that order! :D

[patsan]

Originally posted by Nirol
Good point! I would need that clean up crew. I set my BD as the day to order...I knew it would be awhile before I got it. I was just thrilled to get to the day I could make that order! :D

You'll see when you finally get it, and I do think you'll agree that if you did have to wait, you'd rather wait for part 1 more than part 2. (I know you won't agree with that comment right now. lol)
Anytime we can get the TBS is a great day! Heck, I still get so excited for everyone when I hear they're getting theirs. I just wish they'd show more pictures of it and share their stories more! But it's like a mini re-living of getting it!

[Nirol]

I agree! all I have to go on is other peoples pics...I have a bunch of equipment pics etc. but thought I'd wait until I got the rock...

[jazack]

I have been waiting for part two for about 45 days now. However, in that time span, I HAVE added a mini clean up crew of Turbo Snails and hermits. I also have 3 fish (yellow headed jawfish, cardinal fish) a HUGE Zenia rock that came out of another persons tank that was grown from a frag, Kenya Tree Coral, Zoanthids plus eveything on my part 1 is growing like crazy. I already have coralline algea encrusting my overflow box and it has started on the back glass. So basically, my tank looks sweet right now as it is and is flourishing big time! Hopefully, whenever part 2 comes, it wont screw my tank over!!! I get the feeling that i dont really need the 50 hermits and snails they are sending with my part 2 as my tank is in pristine condition as it is right now. Oh yeah, it is a 75 gallon tank.

[Nirol]

OK... see Pat, waiting 45 days for part 2 isn't so bad then...let me tell you what I have in my tank: Water, a PH, algae, light, uhh..more water...yawn...(sorry, I couldn't resist)

[aetaylor]

Now since we are all in the wait mode and the alge is starting to claim its turf, is it ok to clean the glass or should I just cover my tank with a sheet :), Will the C/C be able to hold a defence against the alge even if is close to (if not over 1 inch long)?
I too have been waiting for awhile for my 2nd half, but when people come over and can't belive all the intresting lif on my rocks, I find a new found strenghth to carry me on a little longer. I know the people are starting to get a little aintcy, but just hold on. Together we can make it. :cool:

[Nirol]

Originally posted by aetaylor
Now since we are all in the wait mode and the alge is starting to claim its turf, is it ok to clean the glass or should I just cover my tank with a sheet :), Will the C/C be able to hold a defence against the alge even if is close to (if not over 1 inch long)?
I too have been waiting for awhile for my 2nd half, but when people come over and can't belive all the intresting lif on my rocks, I find a new found strenghth to carry me on a little longer. I know the people are starting to get a little aintcy, but just hold on. Together we can make it. :cool:

I have my lights running just to be able to check on temperture swings, timers, etc. Weird to light an empty tank but I have been able to work out some issues. I added some Macro algae to my sump so I also have algae in the display. I clean the front and sides routinely, the back glass will be a frenzy for the C/C.

[patsan]

It's fine to clean the glass! It must look pretty scruffy now if you haven't cleaned it yet! :D Can you even see into the tank anymore?

[AquAsylum]

I have some old rock (getting a TBS package to top everything off) and it was covered with several inches of green slime algae. I gave it a good scrub and was very pleased to see happy coralline- a lot more than I expected, and even some new sponges! Don't worry, the green hair won't kill the coralline.

[dirty harry]

I never thought I would see the day that customers would be discussing who is suffering more, those waiting for part 1 or those waiting for part 2. I've been wondering how long folks would wait before the pain outweighed the benefit of the wonderful rock.

[Nirol]

Originally posted by dirty harry
I never thought I would see the day that customers would be discussing who is suffering more, those waiting for part 1 or those waiting for part 2. I've been wondering how long folks would wait before the pain outweighed the benefit of the wonderful rock.
LOL! True! Can you believe it! I remember one time standing in the freezing rain in line to get some concert tickets! Still, I enjoyed the show! Or maybe its like waiting for super bowl tickets, you know you are in line to get them, and you know it will be fun to go, but the anxiety is going to kill ya! (Ok TBS don't go and raise prices, just because I compared you to the Super Bowl!) :D

[PotysGSXR]

well, i just ordered my package (35g) last week on thursday so it hasnt even been a week yet for me. i'm guessing its gonna be a long wait for me. sigh. anyone know what the situation is with the turbulence/weather/visibility in florida is right now? i ordered the package without the sand cuz i have sand coming in from elsewhere. i guess ill have sand to look at for the next few months. (maybe there'll be some worms! YAY! -_-)

[BlitzK]

TODAY: WEST WINDS 10 TO 15 KNOTS BECOMING NORTHWEST 15 KNOTS AND
GUSTY IN THE AFTERNOON. SEAS 2 TO 4 FEET.
TONIGHT THROUGH SATURDAY: NORTHEAST WINDS 15 KNOTS. SEAS 3 TO 4
FEET.
SUNDAY AND MONDAY: EAST WINDS 5 TO 10 KNOTS. SEAS 2 TO 3 FEET.

[banik]

Anybody know if they have been able to dive this week?

[scubaguy699]

As much as I hate to say it judging by the weather, I would doubt it.

[steve9k]

What's considered "good" weather? In terms of wind & sea height...

...only been waiting 28 days, looks like there's quite a few ahead of me....

[BlitzK]

a few days with seas under 3' and under 10kts wind...

That would be "good wx"... of course ideal would be 0' seas and 0 winds!

[liverock]

Originally posted by BlitzK
a few days with seas under 3' and under 10kts wind...

That would be "good wx"... of course ideal would be 0' seas and 0 winds!

That would be nice, but not this again today

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tbw/cgi-bin/marine.pl?node=TBW&office=TBW&state=FL&cwfPhrase=853&swrPhrase=SOUTHWEST+FLORIDA&nowPhrase=853

TBS

[scubaguy699]

Is this kind of weather unusual for Tampa this time of year?

[BlitzK]

no... The weather is GREAT... unless you want to take a small boat out and go diving... 8-)

[scubaguy699]

maybe I should rephrase that... are these kind of seas unusual for this time of year? ;)

[pws]

looks like the weather is gonna be around 2-3 foot waves all week. We take our 17' little boat out in 3-4 footers. Is the sea different than the lakes or is it that the water is too cloudy?

[BlitzK]

scuba: no... This is the "normal weather". The seas arnt terrible, just not good for small boats or diving.

That said, It was sure nice out on the water yesturday and I'm sure it will be just as nice today! Hope they got some divin' in!

[Nirol]

Can you believe it? After all my waiting and whining, I am going to have to postpone my rock order! My daughter is getting married on Saturday and then we are leaving for a much needed vacation. I don't want the rock to come in and then not be able to care for it. I am just sick...:sad1:

Oh by the way, we will be in Mexico snorkeling... that's right I'll be looking at rock I don't have!

[mhe]

Anyone know/heard if the folks at tbs are diving this week?

[BlitzK]

I sure hope so... the past few days have just been beautiful out on the water!

[llelli]

Has anyone gotten a recent shipment from tbs? I have been waiting a long time.

[Nirol]

In an email from Richard to me this morning:


"we are stocked again!

have had 3 days good weather and diving!"

:D

[liverock]

Originally posted by Nirol
In an email from Richard to me this morning:


"we are stocked again!

have had 3 days good weather and diving!"

:D

Summer is here!

YEA!

Yall hang in there, we had a zillion second 1/2"s to get out first as they take priority.....but the is light at the end of the tunnel now!

We are still shipping seconds only as it is only fair to take care of the customers who have been waiting for the weather to clear, it has and we are hard at it!!

But......those of you who have been waiting more than a month for first half, please pm us with name address, phone, size of Package and destination airport, I think next week will make a lot of folks happy!

TBS

[AquAsylum]

Good to hear! When do you think you'll be able to take new walk-ins?

[liverock]

Originally posted by AquAsylum
Good to hear! When do you think you'll be able to take new walk-ins?

If all goes well today diving today, tomorrow will be a go!

TBS

[AquAsylum]

Ok- I'll call this afternoon!

[AquAsylum]

Well, Richard, I called but I'm hoping that since nobody answered it means you had a good collection. Can you let me know via either the board or phone if we should drive up tomorrow? Thanks! (ordered a 25 gallon package, last name starts with Bau)

[BlitzK]

did anyone get out there today? I'm going to shoot for next weekend....

[wzyyp6]

Been kind of quiet on this thread since 4/23, any updates on status of shipments from TBS? I ordered mine yesterday and quite excited!

[liverock]

Originally posted by BlitzK
did anyone get out there today? I'm going to shoot for next weekend....

We are having huge thunderstorns today and tomorrow, does not look good....

TBS

[BlitzK]

funny thing... the water is GLASS right now on the gulf... I guess its the darkness, rain and those bright things that keep comming from the sky thats keeping you (and me!) on shore.

[liverock]

Originally posted by BlitzK
funny thing... the water is GLASS right now on the gulf... I guess its the darkness, rain and those bright things that keep comming from the sky thats keeping you (and me!) on shore.

Yea isn't it funny how deadly lightning keeps you off the water?

TBS

[banik]

Looks like a good week coming up
I am keeping my fingers crossed

[mikehulen]

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tbw/cgi-bin/marine.pl?node=TBW&office=TBW&state=FL&cwfPhrase=853&swrPhrase=SOUTHWEST+FLORIDA&nowPhrase=853

Looks like good fishing weather to me...is it any good for diving?

[BlitzK]

good... good? hah... the weather has been AWESOME!

Today the seas were like 1'... clear waters... Just how you want it every day!

[reefr_madniss]

Does that mean they're out "rockin"?

[willember]

Originally posted by reefr_madniss
Does that mean they're out "rockin"?

please say yes

[banik]

The weather seemed great this past week. Has anyone been called to get rock?

[reefr_madniss]

I called on Tuesday morning to check status, but got the answering machine. I left a message but no response yet...

[BlitzK]

I'm sure they're out collecting, guys.... this has probably been the nicest conditions in many months. The water was smooth and clear this morning!

[jay24k]

Please let us know Richard. I would like to head down tommorrow to buy some rock if you got some good stuff in.

Thanks!

[banik]

Got the call yesterday afternoon
I am finally getting my rock!!!

[bkelley02]

Banik, how long was your wait?

[Csubseball]

Banik-
Thats great that you got the call! Ive been waiting since March 20th, and I still have no heard anything. I've sent e-mails and PM's but I have not receieved any response. I hope my name didn't disapear from the waiting list.
Please take pictures and post them when you get your rock. It always nice to see what everyone gets with their TBS. Have fun and enjoy your rock!:dance:

[Pacman100]

[sigh]... I'm glad someone is getting their rock. C-ball, I've been waiting about 3 months for my second shipment, and haven't been notified or anything either. Hopefully it will be soon. I'm getting impatient, dreaming of what I want to put in my aquarium!

[kidzatheart]

Pacman,

You may want to call mary. I called yesterday for my part 2 and i will be receiving it next Tuesday. The weather they have been have should allow them to catch up.

[Pacman100]

I called several weeks ago and they said they weren't diving then. I also called a couple times last week, and no one answered (although I left some messages). Still no word from them...

Maybe I need to be more annoying? I dunno what you guys are doing to get your rock.

Ok seriously, I'll try to be patient. It's just hard when you've been waiting for the second half since February and you see all these people getting their rocks before you.

Maybe this would be a good time to take up meditation or something...

[kidzatheart]

Today should be a good time to call. They have the rock and they should be open to the public for walk-ins, so someone should be there. I found out the best time to call is in the morning around 9-10. Hope you hear something soon.

[Csubseball]

I'm just really hoping that the phrase "good things come to those that wait" is true in this case. I've seen pictures of the rock and read the stories, but I CANT wait to have the rock in my own tank. I wish I didnt live 2000 miles away. I would drive in and pick some up.
I'm to the point that a little road trip doesn't sound so bad. LOL. FL or BUST!

[BlitzK]

Call them... They're open right now.

I'm sure they went diving this week. This is the best weather we've had in well... like... ever 8-)

[bkelley02]

I called and talked to Mark at around 12:30. He said that had been diving but didn't tell me when I should be expecting my rock. Took my name and number and was going to go back through the orders.

[Pacman100]

I finally got the call! I should be getting my rocks tomorrow! The nice weather sounds like it's finally letting them catch up.

[banik]

The Rock is unbelievable!!!!
I will post some pictures, soon.
However right now everything is covered in silt from the sand settling, anyone know how to clean the rocks from the brown stringy silt?

[docklink]

Originally posted by banik
The Rock is unbelievable!!!!
I will post some pictures, soon.
However right now everything is covered in silt from the sand settling, anyone know how to clean the rocks from the brown stringy silt?

Let the water clear (silt settle) naturally (patience :D ). Then use a plastic turkey baster (a couple of bucks at the store) to *gently* squirt off the settled silt. HTH Loooking forward to seeing picts :bounce1:

[mikehulen]

Woo Hoo! Gonna be a happy camper tomorrow morning!

[kidzatheart]

Hello everyone. Since this thread is about the TBS i thought i would invite you all to join our thread called our tbs. We all share our pics and help each other anwer any questions. There is also someone who is great with id'ing things we dont know what it is. The tread is very long and full or great info and pics. Here is the link:http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=4954176#post4954176

[willember]

got the call 20 min ago. 1st batch arriving tonight.

[Nirol]

Me too! Should be here Friday! :D

[scubaguy699]

I got my second half last night, it looks great!!! Well worth the 7 weeks I spent waiting for it. The second half that is.

[Nirol]

hey Richard, the link at the beginning of this thread now looks like better weather...(but what do I know,,,)

Any chance of a 2nd 1/2 soon?

"if I only had a brain...." (sung to the tune from The Wizard of Oz... I'm in Kansas remember.... ) I did not get one with the 1st 1/2...hint, hint....:D

[kidzatheart]

Our brain came in on part 2. Part one didnt have one.

[Nirol]

This doesn't look good!
Tropical Storm (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8156450/?GT1=6657)

[bkelley02]

As much as wish I had the second part of the Package YESTERDAY, let's look at this positively......... It's giving the rock that much more time to gain life for us! ;)

I'm reaching here, I know!:(

[BrianPlankis]

The weather looks good except for the scattered t-storms shown today. Is TBS out diving today? I sure hope so! I need my rock fix!

[bkelley02]

I'm starting to get the shakes myself! :D

[mikehulen]

Originally posted by bkelley02
I'm starting to get the shakes myself! :D

Ditto. I want my Part 2 :-)

[Nirol]

Originally posted by mikehulen
Ditto. I want my Part 2 :-)

Me First! :D

[BrianPlankis]

Originally posted by Nirol
Me First! :D

If you have been waiting longer than March 25th, then I guess you should be first, otherwise please go after me :D

B.

[Nirol]

Originally posted by garagebrian
If you have been waiting longer than March 25th, then I guess you should be first, otherwise please go after me :D

B.

Well Ok you first, just don't take all the good rock!.... j/k

[peterjroberts2003]

well i beat ya i put my order in on my birthday (march 9th) and still no word or contact... even rang and left a message.. grr long distance phonecalls

[Jocko]

So they're still 3 months behind? The automated order confirmation email still says "there is at least a week or two wait for delivery". LOL. Might be time to update that. :-)

[patsan]

Originally posted by peterjroberts2003
well i beat ya i put my order in on my birthday (march 9th) and still no word or contact... even rang and left a message.. grr long distance phonecalls
If you're from the UK, you better send them an email or a PM or something. I didn't think they even shipped out of the country due to the prohibitive cost and permit fees, etc. They might not even think you were serious with the order you placed.

No, they're not 3 months behind anymore.

[Jocko]

Originally posted by patsan
No, they're not 3 months behind anymore. Oh cool! Thanks for the info!

[peterjroberts2003]

yippy......... got an email today. yes they ship to england but the paper work takes upto 4 weeks to come through, well so i have another 4 weeks atleast but the wait is gona be worth it, the documentation cost around 450 buc and with e package cost for a 130g package on top, the final cost inc exchange rates is around £1174.79. this my seem steap on the cost for you lot, but when you consider the cost of a 20K box (around 44 pound) in weght is about £250 then the costs soon mount up. and i will be saving around £500 pound in total and getting a better product of nature.
as for the weather..............lol we got yours now, the last few days have been bad. houses have colapssed and a whole town dissapered. no joke, from just one and a half hours of rain. ( was the equivelent to 1 months worth of rain in that time) but no power cuts, god i love the nation power grid, and living near a sub station

[liverock]

Originally posted by peterjroberts2003
yippy......... got an email today. yes they ship to england but the paper work takes upto 4 weeks to come through, well so i have another 4 weeks atleast but the wait is gona be worth it, the documentation cost around 450 buc and with e package cost for a 130g package on top, the final cost inc exchange rates is around £1174.79. this my seem steap on the cost for you lot, but when you consider the cost of a 20K box (around 44 pound) in weght is about £250 then the costs soon mount up. and i will be saving around £500 pound in total and getting a better product of nature.
as for the weather..............lol we got yours now, the last few days have been bad. houses have colapssed and a whole town dissapered. no joke, from just one and a half hours of rain. ( was the equivelent to 1 months worth of rain in that time) but no power cuts, god i love the nation power grid, and living near a sub station

We feel your pain

look here.....we are getting killed today!

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/radar/loop/DS.p38cr/si.ktbw.shtml

TBS

[BrianPlankis]

Richard,

Man, you guys just can't catch a break! JEEZ! Thanks for the update on the weather :)

Just out of curiousity, approximately where is your rock site on that map? Your name is Tampa Bay Saltwater, but from the description on your website it sounds like you have to travel a while to get to the site.

Thanks,

Brian

[liverock]

Originally posted by garagebrian
Richard,

Man, you guys just can't catch a break! JEEZ! Thanks for the update on the weather :)

Just out of curiousity, approximately where is your rock site on that map? Your name is Tampa Bay Saltwater, but from the description on your website it sounds like you have to travel a while to get to the site.

Thanks,

Brian

Is just off Tampa ....about 10 miles.....

[Csubseball]

Richard-
I wish you guys had the weather that we have been having here in CO. Its been 90+ everyday for almost a week straight with hardly any clouds. I will try and send some of this your way so you guys can get out diving again.

Good luck!

[liverock]

Originally posted by Csubseball
Richard-
I wish you guys had the weather that we have been having here in CO. Its been 90+ everyday for almost a week straight with hardly any clouds. I will try and send some of this your way so you guys can get out diving again.

Good luck!

Please send it our way!!

as here we go again today!!!

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/radar/loop/DS.p38cr/si.ktbw.shtml

TBS

[bkelley02]

That's ridiculous!! Ugh! Need to build a REALLY big umbrella!

[BrianPlankis]

WOW, we could really use some of that rain in Texas, we are in almost drought conditions now. Whoever put the curse on TBS to have constant rain, please remove it, we are humble now.

B.

[liverock]

Originally posted by garagebrian
WOW, we could really use some of that rain in Texas, we are in almost drought conditions now. Whoever put the curse on TBS to have constant rain, please remove it, we are humble now.

B.

We got 4 inches last night in about 2 hours....Miami has it much worse off, they are getting flooding......have to mow the grass every 4 days.....

TBS

[BrianPlankis]

Geez....more rain for TBS today...will they EVER catch a break in this weather? UGH!!!!!

[liverock]

Originally posted by garagebrian
Geez....more rain for TBS today...will they EVER catch a break in this weather? UGH!!!!!


ahhhhh but we are tring to dive today!

we shall see!

TBS

[BrianPlankis]

Originally posted by liverock
ahhhhh but we are tring to dive today!

we shall see!

TBS

Good luck Richard, and please, dive safe!

[Nirol]

Originally posted by liverock
ahhhhh but we are tring to dive today!

we shall see!

TBS

Yes! Good News! :D

[liverock]

Originally posted by Nirol
Yes! Good News! :D

Look at this weather!!

Getting killed AGAIN today.....

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/radar/loop/DS.p38cr/si.ktbw.shtml


But my partner was a brave Captain today, and we got a load of rock!

But you first 1/2 folks do not get to excited, we have to send out all our 2nd 1/2's first, which we will be doing this week.

New orders and first 1/2's will start to ship on Friday, if the weather cooperates!

TBS

[bkelley02]

How far down that 2nd half list do you think you'll be getting? Please say past me!!! :D

Even if I'm not, I'm glad you where able to sneak a day in. I've been watching the weather down there religiously and you can not catch a break!:mad2:

[Csubseball]

Richard-

I tried sending some of this CO weather down your way...guess it didn't listen. I'm glad to hear that you got some diving in today. That could not have been fun with the rain.
Well, look forward to the big call once again. I swear, its going to be like Christmas all over again, right Bkelley??
Well, be safe and hope some more sun is coming your way!

[bkelley02]

Christmas, Birthday, pick any holiday you want! It will be reason to celebrate!:beer: :celeb1:

[BlitzK]

save some stuff at the store for Saturday!! 8-)

[mikehulen]

Richard,

Please pick me out some nice stuff for my 2nd half. :bum:

Would love to have some X-mas Tree Worms in the mix. :cool:

You can keep the mantis's though; I think 4 from the 1st half was more than enough :p

[mikehulen]

Awful quiet down here. ANy news?

[BrianPlankis]

Originally posted by mikehulen
Awful quiet down here. ANy news?

Mike,

If you follow the link a few posts above, it shows the weather for today...which OF COURSE is rain again, some look like pretty serious thunderstorms. It has been that way since Tuesday. Looks like next week for more diving.

B.

[liverock]

Originally posted by garagebrian
Mike,

If you follow the link a few posts above, it shows the weather for today...which OF COURSE is rain again, some look like pretty serious thunderstorms. It has been that way since Tuesday. Looks like next week for more diving.

B.


Well mother nature is going to give us a double whammy, we have a huge storm in the Gulf now

http://www.srh.noaa.gov/tropical/satpix/gmex_ir4_loop.htm

and they are saying by friday we will have hurricane force winds in the Keys as the new storm comes closer this weekend......

They are saying it will be 80-110 MPH winds by friday afternoon..in the Keys, which means Tampa will get it sat-sun......

Geeeesh!

TBS

[mikehulen]

Crud...can't catch a break.

Richard, since this week is probably knocked out by weather, I will not be able to take delivery of 2nd part till 23rd or later (if you are even able to dive by then).

I will actually be right up the road from you in Orlando for 5 days, but with the way my wife packs there is no way I could fit boxes of rock and critters into my SUV for the trip back....hate to think of their condition after a 16 hour trip back to Houston in the car either.

[errorcode303]

why dont you guys take extra rock when the weather is good and store it in house ? like this week you can just go dive on tuesday,wed,thur and grab extra for the weekend? plus you guys are only a few miles off the coast so it should be that bad.

hire a few part times and expand the business :)

[BrianPlankis]

The weather may look good today, with only 2 foot seas and little rain on the radar, but any time a large storm passes(such as cindy), the water is cloudy for days and diving is useless.

I've spoken to Richard several times and they try to get out as much as possible, believe me, if they could be diving, they would be. Patience is a virtue :)

[docklink]

Originally posted by errorcode303
why dont you guys take extra rock when the weather is good and store it in house ? like this week you can just go dive on tuesday,wed,thur and grab extra for the weekend? plus you guys are only a few miles off the coast so it should be that bad.

hire a few part times and expand the business :)
I believe they do take extra when they can but with the weather hits Richard and Mark have taken this year they have been struggling just to keep up with the waiting list. As to hiring extra divers, I don't think the availability of on call divers is too great plus the cost of the required additional equipement and personel would send the price of the rock way higher. Just my two-cents.

[BrianPlankis]

Things are looking good on radar and the wave forecast! Too bad the storm churned up the water or TBS could get out this week :(

B.

[liverock]

Originally posted by garagebrian
Things are looking good on radar and the wave forecast! Too bad the storm churned up the water or TBS could get out this week :(

B.

We went to take a look at the Gulf today......

can you say pea soup?

But on a better note the new storm coming has taken a southerly turn, which is a good thing, but you really can"t tell where they are going to go until a day or two out...we shall see! ....or maybe not 'see'.

TBS

[BrianPlankis]

Has the pea soup diminished? Any luck getting diving in? Seas 2-3 feet sounds pretty good for the Gulf!

B.

[Jocko]

Down with pea soup!

[BlitzK]

It's still somewhat "pea soupish"... but I tell ya... if I had people standing in lines wanting to give me money, I'd be out there diving!

[robilium]

garagebrian - u receive your number 2 yet - how long u been waiting?

[BrianPlankis]

Originally posted by robilium
garagebrian - u receive your number 2 yet - how long u been waiting?

Just got the call today :) I waited 119 days, but that is because I missed the call when I was on my honeymoon in Hawaii at the ~90 day mark.

B.

[mikehulen]

Woo hoo, Brian!

I just got back in town late last night, so hopefully I will get the phone call shortly myself too.

[geminiluna]

It's still somewhat "pea soupish"... but I tell ya... if I had people standing in lines wanting to give me money, I'd be out there diving!

Wow - are you nuts? Ever hear of unsafe diving conditions??? You are kidding, right?

[Jocko]

So how have thing been down there? I guess you're still pretty backlogged with orders?

[liverock]

Originally posted by Jocko
So how have thing been down there? I guess you're still pretty backlogged with orders?

The Gulf is still zero vis....so we went to the Keys friday and got a load of Keys rock, we have that in stock and shipping...
Thanks
TBS

[pangaea6]

Got my rocks today Richard, the keys rocks are just what I needed, like the plants that are on it. Thanks for the bag of crabs also, the trigger and puffer loved picking at them.

[liverock]

Originally posted by pangaea6
Got my rocks today Richard, the keys rocks are just what I needed, like the plants that are on it. Thanks for the bag of crabs also, the trigger and puffer loved picking at them.

Good deal, trigger food!

If you will notice the keys rock has many types of coralines that we do not see growing on out Gulf rock, and just wait till you put good lights on it, the plants will go crazy!
Thanks
TBS

[reefr_madniss]

What's the difference between gulf rock and keys rock?

[banik]

THe Seas seem calm, is the visibility still bad?

[robilium]

I am gonna wait for the Gulf rock :) Not really much of a plant guy. All corals/coraline/life etc. :)

gimme some good news on the vis :)

[Jocko]

Sorry guys, but word on the street is that they are in the midst of the worst red tide outbreak on record. I haven't seen any updated on when that might clear up.

[ccradr]

I placed my name on the waiting list in April and never heard a thing. I called back in June to be told that I would get a call back soon. I have not heard anything from you guys (TAMPA BAY) When I try to call...I get the machine. DO I have to start the wait all over again or what?

[liverock]

Originally posted by ccradr
I placed my name on the waiting list in April and never heard a thing. I called back in June to be told that I would get a call back soon. I have not heard anything from you guys (TAMPA BAY) When I try to call...I get the machine. DO I have to start the wait all over again or what?

We still are not diving the Gulf, so we have been going to our Keys site for rock, just got another 1000 pounds in stock two days ago.

We have it in stock ready to ship!

TBS

[liverock]

Originally posted by Jocko
Sorry guys, but word on the street is that they are in the midst of the worst red tide outbreak on record. I haven't seen any updated on when that might clear up.

Look Here!

http://www.whoi.edu/sbl/liteSite.do?litesiteid=3230

seems it is a bad year for red tide, globally...

TBS

[banik]

You guys at TBS havent seemed to catch a break this year. First it was rough seas all winter, then an early huricane, now red tide.

However i will still wait patiently for my second 1/2 of rock, no matter what mother nature throws your way.

[liverock]

Originally posted by banik
You guys at TBS havent seemed to catch a break this year. First it was rough seas all winter, then an early huricane, now red tide.

However i will still wait patiently for my second 1/2 of rock, no matter what mother nature throws your way.

We do have keys rock in stock, ready to ship!

TBS

[Jocko]

Are the differences between the gulf rock and keys rock primarily due to environmental differences between the two locations or to differing amounts of time the rocks have been at the sites?

[liverock]

Originally posted by Jocko
Are the differences between the gulf rock and keys rock primarily due to environmental differences between the two locations or to differing amounts of time the rocks have been at the sites?

Both....we get totally different growths on the two locations...yet they are only about 250 miles apart, and in the same ocean.....

TBS

[Jocko]

Richard, I saw an article online from the Tampa Tribune with some rather disturbing quotes from you. How has the red tide affected the gulf aquaculture site? It doesn't sound good. :-(

[pangaea6]

Man that article sounds horrible.:sad1: Better stock up on the keys rock I guess. I couldn't imagine my inventory being wiped out for 2-3 yrs. Maybe the mantis shrimp won't repopulate as quick, if there is a bright side.

[liverock]

Originally posted by Jocko
Richard, I saw an article online from the Tampa Tribune with some rather disturbing quotes from you. How has the red tide affected the gulf aquaculture site? It doesn't sound good. :-(

Is not good news especially for the other rock farmers offshore, they are totally wiped out.....the dead zone is from about 3 miles to 40 miles out from manatee county to Hernado county....

Is the worse we have ever seen in 30 years...thank goodness our rock is just 2 miles offshore and has escaped the brunt of the damage...

We are going to the Keys every few days to get rock from our site there, in fact Mark is coming back with 1000 pounds tonight again.

We are going to do an investigative dive on the site later this week to see how it looks.
TBS

[Jocko]

Wow that's horrible. That would definitely be good if closer inland got spared! Not just so we can still get gulf rock, but also I'd imagine it would take alot less time for life to return to the other sites from a mile inland as opposed to from 37 miles out!

Could it take years before the other guys even have rocks to sell? Is this going to put them out of business?

We'll keep our fingers crossed for you. Guess I'll wait for the result of the investigative dive before I decide if I'll take keys rock for part 2.

Thanks for the update. And best wishes to you and the other rock farmers.

[liverock]

Originally posted by Jocko
Wow that's horrible. That would definitely be good if closer inland got spared! Not just so we can still get gulf rock, but also I'd imagine it would take a lot less time for life to return to the other sites from a mile inland as opposed to from 37 miles out!

Could it take years before the other guys even have rocks to sell? Is this going to put them out of business?

We'll keep our fingers crossed for you. Guess I'll wait for the result of the investigative dive before I decide if I'll take keys rock for part 2.

Thanks for the update. And best wishes to you and the other rock farmers.

We get red tide every year, but it comes and goes, and moves around. Red tide affects every coastal state from Maine to California. Is nothing new to us, but this year is being compared to an event of the same magnitude occurred in 1971.

What has happened is the seasonal timing of the red tide came early this year, we first saw it in January. It usually only lasts a week or two and is not harmful to the gulf, other than some fish kills.

But this year it came and did not go away, and with the extreme temperatures we are having this year the gulf is running 91-93 degrees which is unusually hot.

So the red tide was trapped by a thermocline on the bottom and could not swim out of the temperate layer, it depleted the dissolved oxygen level to "0" which has killed the bottom dwellers.

It appears that this area is most sever off of Manatee, Pinellas and Hernado countys, and starting a few miles off shore to about forty miles out. It is truly an environmental disaster which not only affects liverock, but every other industry water related here in this area.

The good news is Mother Nature acts fast, this has happened before and was seen to become "normal" again in less than a year, so the Gulf will bounce back, it will just take some time.

Tonight on the news, the local scientists working on this say the levels of the red tide bacteria are gone in many areas, and in much lower levels where they did find it, so we are on the mend already.

The coastal area from land out to 3-5 miles seems to have fared better than the other areas, but we will see soon as we are going for a dive this week on the Gulf site to see what up. Hopefully the tidal currents and flow kept the oxygen levels up, at least it appears that way now.

I have heard from two other farmers out in federal water<12 or more miles out> and the news is not good.

Meanwhile Mark is making the marathon trip to the Keys site to harvest rock, he leaves early in the morning, drives 350 miles down there, goes diving and gets 1000# or rock then drives home the 350 miles...all in the same day...
so we are stocked!

TBS

[lossman]

Yikes!!! Just the one way trip down there is awful!! I could not imagine doing a round trip and diving too, all in one day!! Mark deserves a medal. :)

[banik]

Richard have you been able to do the dive and check the extent of damage to your rock from the red tide? I am keeping my fingers crossed that there is no damage.

[robilium]

4 months and counting as I wait for my rock..... So instead of interest on the money paid - can we get extra freebies instead.

Any ETA at all?

[liverock]

Originally posted by banik
Richard have you been able to do the dive and check the extent of damage to your rock from the red tide? I am keeping my fingers crossed that there is no damage.

No diving for at least a week, we are already feeling this storm with rain bands...

http://www.ssd.noaa.gov/PS/TROP/DATA/RT/FLOAT/IR4/20.jpg

TBS

[bkelley02]

Originally posted by banik
Richard have you been able to do the dive and check the extent of damage to your rock from the red tide? I am keeping my fingers crossed that there is no damage.

I'm curious about this too Richard!

I'm already looking to place another order with you but would prefer the Gulf stuff over the Keys. Keys rock is beautiful too, just like the sponge and coral diversity a little more on the Gulf rock based on the pics I've been seeing.

Hopefully you guys will catch a break pretty soon!

[liverock]

Originally posted by bkelley02
I'm curious about this too Richard!

I'm already looking to place another order with you but would prefer the Gulf stuff over the Keys. Keys rock is beautiful too, just like the sponge and coral diversity a little more on the Gulf rock based on the pics I've been seeing.

Hopefully you guys will catch a break pretty soon!

We do not know yet.......I still will not get in the water until this red tide disappears....we are going to the Keys again Tuesday for another load, if the weather clears up enough after this hurricane.
TBS

[bkelley02]

I wish you guys the best.

I couldn't be happier with the rock you sent me ( right before all he!! broke loose on you down there ), and can't wait for some more.

Bri

[banik]

Has the red tide passed yet?
Anxiously waiting for my part 2.

[BlitzK]

its better, but hasnt passed... will be a few months until the bloom is "gone"... and then a few years until the areas hit hard will be able to rebuild.