STEM Ed Announcement: Youth SCUBA Diving Group forming

[Morton Sternheim <mort@k12s.phast.umass.edu>]

This is not a UMass Amherst program.
Contact information is below.
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Youth SCUBA Diving Group Forming

SCUBAnauts International is forming a chapter in the Upper Pioneer Valley.  SCUBAnauts is a nationally recognized organization for youth, ages 12 to 18, dedicated to building leadership and character by training young scientists to do research both underwater and on land.   Activities that are currently being done in the three active chapters in Florida include mapping coral reefs, cataloging reef characteristics, documenting environmental damage in waterways, and other water-related research.  

SCUBAnaut chapters train the "Nauts", as the youth members are called, in advanced open water diving, first aid, research techniques, rescue diving, safety, underwater photography, marine biology and aquatic life, water quality testing, and many other water-related areas.  All "Nauts" work towards American Academy of Underwater Scientists (AAUS) certification, with the goal of actually assisting underwater scientists and researchers with actual projects down the road.

The new chapter, tentatively named the "Lake Hitchcock Chapter" after the prehistoric lake that once covered much of the pioneer valley, will be working towards helping with research Of the Deerfield and Connecticut River Watersheds and costal estuaries on Cape Cod.  This will include studying and documenting native and invasive species, water quality studies, and also travelling south to work on Coral Reefs in Florida every year or two.

The Lake Hitchcock Chapter is hosting an informational night on May 12th at 7:00.  You will have the opportunity see pictures of Scubanaut Activities, meet the leaders of the chapter, ask questions, find out about the specific trainings, learn about the parent organization:  SCUBAnauts International, and meet with other interested families.  The meeting will be at Greenfield Community College in the East (Metal) building.  Follow the signs when you enter the building.

If you have any questions, contact Doug or Cathy Wilkins:  413-337-5717, doug@dwilkins.com, or cathy@cwilkins.org.  Feel free to visit the SCUBAnauts International web site:  http://www.SCUBAnautsintl.org/

Press Release contact:  Doug Wilkins, cell phone:  413-522-7701, office number:  413-775-1480.  7 Underwood Hill Road, Colrain, MA  01340