In summer 2002 AMCAI collaborated with Sharon Kegeles of Barry University in Miami, FL, whilst in Bonaire.

As a result of this successful workshop Sharon and her T.E.A.M will be returning to Bonaire in Summer 2003.

AMCAI will actively continue to collaborate with Sharon in the future.

T.E.A.M. Bonaire Update (February 2004)

For the past few weeks a special underwater research project has taken place on Bonaire.  The focus of this educational initiative was to develop methods to train physically handicapped SCUBA divers to collect scientific data on corals and fishes so that this group of divers can join all others who are active in marine conservation.  Bonaire was chosen as the site for this pioneering research due to the ease of getting disabled divers into the water and for the rich underwater environment.

The Bonairian government, STINAPA and the Bonaire Marine Park worked closely with project directors from London and Miami with Access to Marine Conservation for All, International (AMCAI) and TEAMS Bonaire 2003 (Teaching Effective Marine Surveying).  Professor Sharon Kegeles from Barry University in Miami lead the five member team that included marine biologist Rebecca Ross. As educational director, Professor Kegeles developed the training methods while Ms. Ross monitored the scientific data collection of the team participants.  Ms. Ross also designed a special underwater data collection grid that allows minimal contact with the ocean bottom.  At the request of the BMP Manager, this piece of equipment has been donated to the BMP for their continued use.

The team plans to return to the Habitat Resort next year for the first actual training class for handicapped divers.  This will introduce many more new divers to the wonders of Bonaire’s natural resources.