Hey Jeff, watch this board for Janna (NWScubamom's) next fish ID class. Usually a couple of times a year an organization sponsors her and she does them for free, although you can pay and get your PADI cert if you're so inclined.
Class is SO worth it, along with the Invert ID class... I'd pony up the bucks (and I have) to take them. It adds so much to your diving!
Many moons ago we set up a Nwdiveclub class and had Janna come up and teach it. Unfortunately only 3 folks showed out of the 7 or so who said they'd come, so it wasn't really worth her time. If there was enough interest I'm sure she'd think about doing another one(s).
I need to spend some scuba units on some of the great books out there!
After I took a fish ID class, I had a new appreciation for what I was seeing. I actually starting writing down what I was seeing and it was easier for me to remember the differences between the different fish. I found I was having more fun (is that possible???) on my dives too.
you can start filling out REEF Surveys that help keep track of the life around here.
(Well, you can do surveys before you take the class also...but the class really helped me!)
I took Janna's class in June of last year, and it made a big difference in my IDing skills. I had already worked on IDing stuff by asking questions, looking at websites, books, etc. But putting it all together in one day, looking at the most common critters, was really helpful.
And the day after we took Janna's class, coachrenz and I were diving Redondo and spotted some of the invasive tunicate Ciona savignyi. Pretty auspicious timing, I must say.
From my biased perspective, the class is a great way to increase your diving skill and enjoyment.
The REEF Website not only has links to be able to order FREE survey forms, but there is a pretty good online PNW Fish and Invert ID quiz. IT is a great way to start learning what things you might be seeing.
There are actually quizzes for lots of different areas. An opportunity to brush up on the things you might see while doing your warm water diving.
Just to let you know, there are NO free courses on the horizon so far this year, so you might want to think about putting together a group of 5+ divers if you'd like me to come on up your way and teach a class. We can always do it in a shop or someone's home, either way is fine.
Figured I should let you know what's going on, especially for those of you holding onto the hope of taking a FREE class - there's no sponsors for any of those at this time.
Heads up!
- Janna
Janna Nichols My underwater photo galleries REEF Citizen Science Program Manager
Seen any cool critters lately?
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yes, I agree, the classes as SO worthwhile. I've taken them both and heartily recommend not only the classes, but Janna in particular as an instructor. You won't find any better, and certainly not any more entertaining.