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From: baillod
Category: Shipwreck Research
Date: 24 Aug 2004
Time: 00:56:54
Remote Name: 24.196.134.228
Hi John,
I think part of it is that during the dive season the board doesn't get as much traffic. I also think the Thunder Bay issue isn't quite as in the forefront as it once was. It's kind of ironic in a way that the sanctuary was established at a time when interest in Great Lakes wreckdiving is declining. I'm still not sure why we're seeing the decline. However, it's clear that less young people are interested in Great Lakes wreckdiving. I think part of the reason is that the econony is better than it was in the 1970s and 80s. As such, divers are more able to travel to tropical destinations. Many more divers used to opt for local (low cost) dive sites. I would suggest that the same number of more people are diving than 20 years ago, but far fewer are opting for the Lakes. Regardless of what you may think of the motivations and concept behind the Alpena Sanctuary, they do try to encourage Great Lakes wreckdiving and have never restricted access to a wreck in the sanctuary. Thoughts???