Many marine
research projects require some time spent underwater to collect
specimens, assemble various experimental apparatus, and conduct observations
of marine life in situ. The Keys Marine
Laboratory (KML) supports scientific diving by visiting investigators at
locations throughout the Florida Keys in a variety of different habitats,
depths, and conditions. Please read through the requirements below for
diving at the laboratory and contact the lab with any questions that you
may have.
The
KML is under the auspices of The American Academy of Underwater Sciences
(AAUS). The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission and The University of South Florida, which jointly operate the
KML, are both organizational members and
follow AAUS guidelines for reciprocity. Visiting divers are required
to submit letters of reciprocity from their AAUS institution dive safety
officer
before they will be permitted to dive from a KML vessel. Although the KML
does not
provide SCUBA instruction on site, beginner instruction and assistance
with snorkeling is available. The Keys Marine Lab also welcomes AAUS institutions
that offer scientific
diver training programs which have their own instructor.
The
dive locker contains a limited supply of snorkeling gear for visitors including
masks, fins, snorkels, wetsuits, and weights. We provide a gear wash-down area
with a large freshwater tank and ample racks/hangers to allow gear to be washed
and
hung
to dry in the shade adjacent to the dock.
SCUBA tanks are available for AAUS divers only, although air fills for visiting
scientists with their own tanks can be provided. Nitrox fills are not available
but can be purchased from many nearby dive shops. Experienced scientific divers
are also available for those divers needing assistance. Please inquire in advance
of your visit if a diving partner will be needed so arrangements can be made
to accomodate you.
