RC Scuba Gathering

[tgreene]

Who here would be interested in a bunch of us getting together for a long weekend of diving..?

I tossed out a couple of ideas in another thread where this idea came about, but we would love to hear from everyone.

I personally feel that it would be best if the dive site were relatively central to the masses that would be attending, and also "friendly" enough that everyone who is certified (regardless of skill level) would be comfortable attending and diving.

If we have enough interest, then it would be pretty neat if we could possibly convince "cerich" and "Coral Diver" to attend and bring some demo gear for everyone to have an opportunity to check out and possibly even buy on-site. For those that don't already know, both of these guys are in manufacturing and/or distribution within the scuba industry.

Let's hear what everyone thinks, then let's pick a location, set a date, and go diving!

-Tim

[yousmellsfishy]

I'm thinkin' Florida Keys. Or maybe NC coast

[tgreene]

It just so happens that I know somebody with a boat and compressor along the SC coast...

Again however, I kinda think that blue water may be somewhat intimidating to new divers.

[yousmellsfishy]

One of the local quarrys out this way is Gilboa Quarry in central Ohio. It was the site of the "most divers submerged at one time" world record attempt this past summer. There is alot to see down there including a jet, a helicopter and tons of fish including some 5' paddlefish. There's also a deep end at about 125' I think, for those wishing to deep dive. Otherwise, it's about 40 to 65'

[tgreene]

We have pretty buch the same thing near here at Mermet Springs in southern Illinois. same depths, same trash.

SeaJay did mention Bonne Terre Mine right off the bat yesterday, but as I replied, it's kinda pricey and is a "follow the leader" type tour.

-Tim

[yousmellsfishy]

Originally Posted by tgreene

same trash.

Yeah, the biggest complaint I hear about Bonne Terre, aside from the "follow the leader" thing is that it's a horrible slug up and down many many steps with your gear to get to the water. Also, I understand there is but ONE fish in the whole place, and honestly, my favorite part about scuba is the underwater life. Not that I wouldn't go (you know, it's all about the community thing), but B.M. isn't really on my bucket list.

[tgreene]

Bonne Terre absolutely is on my list, and it's also where I'll be getting my Cavern Cert done.

There are 80 steep steps, and a winding trail underground. Once upon a time there were 7 fish in the system, but all but one female Bass died...

We visited Bonne Terre last summer and took the walking & boat tours, but I've yet to dive it.

FWIW though, they supply the tanks and weights, so at least you don't have those to contend with.

-Tim

[clownfreak]

I'd love to, but doubt I could unless it was decently close to MI, depending on the place and when I get certfied I could give a better response :]

[kwalls]

I am new to this forum but my wife and I would be in if its in florida or east coast somewhere always fun to meet up with new divers and new friends.

[tgreene]

bump

[dominga]

bump

[mcallahan]

Our local reef club is talking about doing the same thing. I'm game and you aren't too far from me.

My son is due in May so that knocks me out since I just got back from Maui, but I'm happy to help everyone out by doing research. I love organizing things.

[tgreene]

You're hired!!!