Coastal Resources

Scuba divers remove 93lbs of debris from Okaloosa Island Pier

On Sunday, April 23rd, experienced scuba divers from Okaloosa County and beyond gathered at the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier for the annual spring cleanup dive event. Around 50 divers participated in the cleanup, according to the county. The divers spent the morning removing various debris, including fishing line, lures, and even an umbrella. In total, 93lbs. […]

Jared Williams

On Sunday, April 23rd, experienced scuba divers from Okaloosa County and beyond gathered at the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier for the annual spring cleanup dive event.

The event, which was put on by Visit Destin-Fort Walton Beach, The Gulfarium, and the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, aimed to remove fishing line and debris from the pier pilings and seafloor, ultimately preserving the coastal environment.

Around 50 divers participated in the cleanup, according to the county. The divers spent the morning removing various debris, including fishing line, lures, and even an umbrella. In total, 93lbs. of debris was removed.

“This mere 93lbs. [of debris] means our fisherman have really adopted the ‘leave no trace’ initiative,” said Eric Brown, General Manager at the Pier. “We have an amazing group of local fisherman that do their part and then some to help keep our environment clean.”

According to the county, any usable lures will be salvaged and resold by the Okaloosa Island Pier, with proceeds benefiting the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center.

After the dive, participants enjoyed an after-party at Angler’s Restaurant.

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Mike Ciolino commented on SS United States artificial reef project remains on track despite temporary delay

“Thanks Jared for a concise factual article. Too much false narratives floating around social media.”

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Chris commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Thee is no such a thing as affordable housing for over half the people that live in this area. People can’t afford 300, 400 or 500k for a house. Build...”

“That portion has been closed because of wild hogs destroying it, I believe”

Kevin Jones commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Got make up for the 10 mill purchase of the SS United States and getting fined 1k a day while it still sits in port”

Terence R Porch commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Follow the $. It's highly probable the developers have a military connection. And "affordable housing" is a sad case of smoke and mirrors.”

Richard Burkart commented on Okaloosa School District breaks ground on new Pineview School in Crestview

“Why not give the actual location of the new school, but from the little you gave on that point, I'm "assuming" that it will, like just about nearly every school...”

Hrntphxr commented on Twin Cities Hospital marks 45 years of growth with $46 million in recent improvements

“Is HCA Twin Cities able to provide cardiac care?”

John commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“It is amazing on one hand Walton county will purchase 2,000 acres for a state park and claim it is all about the enviroment amd protecting the Florida Black Bear...”

Max commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“Here goes all our natural Woods & Wild Life . Next thing you know they'll be building Businesses. And Gas Stations . And Big Houses .”

Ernest L Anderson commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“It would be nice to know where it will be located. What about designs and will it have primitive camping or a combination of RV sites. What, no artist rendition?...”