Coral Restoration Project in Bonaire

(Sport Diver Magazine - March 26, 2010)  -- During their yearly visit at Buddy Dive Resort in Bonaire last year, Ned & Anna DeLoach (authors of the famous Reef Fish ID, Reef Creature ID and Reef Coral ID) pointed out a very interesting project being executed by Ken Nedimyer, president of the Coral Restoration Foundation Inc.

The Coral Restoration Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on developing simple, effective, and inexpensive offshore coral nursery and coral restoration techniques that could be duplicated anywhere. Their offshore staghorn coral nursery in the Florida Keys has grown from five corals that settled on his rock in 1996, to over 3500 corals in March 2009, and expected to grow to over 7,000 corals by spring 2010.

Ken Nedimyer was invited to Bonaire to view the current situation. Although the deeper reefs of Bonaire are still one of the best in the world, Ken definitely came to the conclusion that his coral restoration project could make a big difference, especially on the shallow reefs. After thorough investigation and meetings with several stakeholders it appears that everybody agrees that this unique program should start as soon as possible. Currently, Ken Nedimyer and Buddy Dive are now waiting for the final OK to start with the Buddy Dive Coral Restoration Program, which will include the first pilot nurseries on Bonaire!

In the mean time it is already for sure that Ned & Anna DeLoach will again visit Buddy Dive Resort in September this year to host Buddy’s annual Marine Life Education Program (September 4th – October 2nd, 2010). During this event Ned and Anna will give seminars and slide shows on fish behavior, coral and fish ID, as well as guided dive trips. Additionally Buddy Dive will give those who are interested in the coral restoration program as much information as desirable.

To celebrate Ned & Anna's work at Buddy Dive Resort Every Second Diver Dives for Free when booking the Drive & Dive Package. Valid for travel between: Sept 4th – Oct 2nd, 2010. 

The Drive & Dive package includes accommodation for 8 days (7 nights), a RENTAL VEHICLE (double cabin pick-up truck or van) for 7 days, 6 BOAT DIVES, 6 days of unlimited air fills, FREE NITROX, daily American style breakfast buffet, a welcome drink, free “Manager's Rum Punch Party”, airport transfer and all government taxes. Rates start from $719 pp for a whole week (based on 6 pers. in a 3-bedr. apartment)

*For new bookings only. Specials can not be combined with other specials & certain restrictions may apply.

Visit Buddy Dive or call 866-Go-Buddy.

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