After a one-year hiatus I am happy to announce my favorite event of the year is back! The annual Nature Dive will be held this Saturday, Sept. 17, from noon to 2 p.m. As in previous years the event will be held on the beach below Mt. Gardner Dock. There is limited parking so please carpool, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and bring friends and family for a fun afternoon on the beach.
It’s hard to believe but this will be the 10th year I have hosted this event with the Bowen Nature Club, and the fifth year with the help of Marine Life Sanctuary Society of BC (MLSS), who have built upon the program and now host an additional two to three events each year. mlssbc.com/programs/beach-interpretation-program/ Volunteer divers will be collecting some of the hardier creatures from nearby reefs for display in tanks on the beach. Marine biologists and naturalists will be on hand to identify the creatures and help educate us on the various roles they play in our ecosystem. It’s a great way to meet our underwater neighbours and learn more about the ocean that surrounds our home.
Admission is free, but participants are encouraged to become members of Bowen Nature Club or Marine Life Sanctuary Society of BC. Donations will be gladly accepted to help offset travel costs and food for the volunteers who run the event, the majority of whom travel over from Vancouver. Donations over $25 can be mailed a charitable tax receipt.
