THE CAYMAN ISLANDS RESPONDS TO LIONFISH INVASION WITH LIONFISH CULLING COURSES FOR DIVERS
Posted by Scuba Herald at 8:05 pm 0 Comment Print
New York, NEW YORK, November 4, 2011 – The Cayman Islands is responding to the recent invasion of lionfish by providing reduced course fees for the PADI Lionfish Tracker Distinctive Specialty course for visitors and residents this fall. Following approval from the Marine Conservation Board, Cayman’s dive operators are encouraging divers to join in the fight to eradicate the invasive lionfish and preserve the destination’s indigenous marine life through formal training in culling the species.
Currently, reduced price courses are available from Divetech, Ocean Frontiers, Deep Blue Divers, Cayman Turtle Divers, Divers Down and Dive ‘n Stuff.
In addition to official training in lionfish culling, participants in the PADI Lionfish Tracker Distinctive Specialty course will automatically receive the PADI c-card and local license so they can immediately contribute their newly-found skills to the cause. Lionfish culling excursions are offered weekly from various dive operators while frequent tournaments are run by Ambassador Divers.
The lionfish has the potential to significantly damage the Cayman Islands’ pristine waters, healthy coral reefs, and vibrant marine life: If the issue is not contained, the invasive species has the potential to reduce local fish stock and allow corals to become covered in algae.
“We are pleased that the Cayman Islands is actively responding to this situation and place our full support behind the initiative,” stated Premier of the Cayman Islands, Hon. McKeeva Bush. “Our dive operators remain dedicated to containing the problem, while our restaurants are coming up with innovative lionfish-focused dishes to develop the market.”
“We hope that the reduced pricing for the PADI Lionfish Tracker specialty course will lead to international awareness and increased interest in this important cause, and will continue to diligently tackle this issue to protect our beautiful waters,” commented Cline Glidden, Jr., Councilor with Responsibility for Tourism.
For additional information on the Cayman Islands’ extensive dive offerings, please visit www.divecayman.ky. To book your PADI Lionfish Tracker Distinctive Specialty course, please visit www.padi.com or sign up with one of Cayman’s premier dive operators.
Located 480 miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquility of western Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travelers, honeymooners and families. World renowned for its idyllic beaches and diving spots, and recognized as a sophisticated, diverse financial center, the Cayman Islands offer spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service. To learn more about the Cayman Islands, visit www.caymanislands.ky or www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agen
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