Local scuba divers, the Sooke Sea Cadets and Wilson Diving were involved in Dive Against Debris on Sunday, September 22, from the Government Wharf to the Rotary Pier, Canada.

As part of the Sooke Sea Cadets and Wilson Diving’s commitment to protecting the ocean, trained divers not only remove underwater debris such as rope, plastic bottles, and fishing line, but also identify and document everything seen underwater in a larger effort to prevent marine debris.

Marine debris, or our trash in the ocean,  makes its way to our underwater environments by the tonne.  The Sooke Sea Cadets and Wilson Diving along with divers around the world are demanding a permanent reduction in and prevention of the garbage we create that damages sensitive marine ecosystems - even in some of the most remote corners of the globe. Helping on shore were the cadets from 207 Admiral Girouard, Sooke Navy League cadet Corps.

“It is our intent to have the Sooke Sea Cadet dive team use their knowledge as certified divers to address marine debris issues locally and contribute to the global view of marine debris underwater,” said Warren Fulton, Sooke Branch president and Wilson Diving instructor.

Scuba divers are uniquely positioned to tackle the global marine debris issue, to take action every day and prevent debris from entering the ocean.

“As part of the Sooke Cadet program, we would like this to become an annual event, supporting the community through environmental stewardship,” said Lt(N) David Blount, Commanding Officer and member of the Sooke dive team.

Dive Against Debris, organized worldwide by Project AWARE Foundation, a non-profit organization mobilizing divers to protect the ocean, has an underwater approach that’s totally unique. It’s a year-round, citizen science program to tackle trash beneath the surface and address its negative impacts.

Sooke Sea Cadets (325 Admiral RC Waller) is a youth leadership program for youth 12-18, delivered in partnership with the Navy League of Canada and DND. The program fosters the development of leadership skills, good citizenship and physical fitness.

Sooke NL Cadets (207 Admiral Girouard), is for youth 9-12, and uses a Naval platform to develop patriotism, good citizenship, duty, self displine and respect for others.