Earlier this month, in the run-up to Earth Day 2016, we asked you to tell us why your dive site is worth protecting by entering #MyDiveSite photo contest. We're thrilled to announce the winners: Christine Albanese, Sinan Şenat and Helene Fjeldstad.

The contest reminded us of the importance of protecting our ocean - the places that we dive, the underwater playgrounds that we love.  Over 670 images were submitted and shared far and wide on social media, inspiring divers across the globe to take ownership of their local dive site by joining Project AWARE's new initiative: Adopt a Dive Site™, launched on April 22.

“Our team has been amazed by the #MyDiveSite submissions we’ve received – divers and ocean activists from all over the globe shared gorgeous photos of their dive sites and told incredible stories about the actions they’re taking to protect these areas,” says Alexa Ward, Community Relations Specialist. “Our dive community’s passion for ocean protection and dedication to grassroots action is unparalleled.”

Congratulations to our #MyDiveSite photo contest winners and thank you to all those who joined the celebrations of our wonderful dive sites by submitting entries or voting for your favorite photos. A big thank you also goes to our friends at PADI and Suunto who donated prizes for our lucky winners!

We look forward to supporting all dive leaders who adopted their dive sites this Earth Day and to continuing to inspire our growing movement to take action for ocean protection in their local community!