Divers off the coast of Panama bring the deep sea ‘ghost’ back to life.
In 2000, while scouting for dive training sites in Panama Bay, Edgardo Ochoa made a troubling discovery. Nearly two decades later, as a marine safety officer for Conservation International (CI), he was able to take action. Ochoa found a huge abandoned fishing net near Otoque Island, smothering a portion of the rocky reef. These “ghost nets” are commercial fishing nets that harm marine life and habitats. Over the years, Ochoa plotted a way to remove the net, and with CI’s support, he formed a team to tackle the task. In September, during Panama’s Ocean Month, the team set out to remove the net. It was a challenging process involving careful removal to avoid further damage to the reef. Ultimately, they were successful in extracting 90% of the net. With plans to monitor the reef’s recovery, Ochoa hopes Panama can lead efforts to remove destructive ghost nets from the ocean. His story highlights the importance of marine conservation efforts.
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Emily Carter, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Vancouver, has a deep-seated passion for the ocean that has shaped her career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of British Columbia, Emily has become known for her captivating and detailed storytelling. Her work vividly portrays the excitement of sailing and the distinct maritime culture of Canada, earning her a respected place in the sailing community. When not writing, Emily enjoys navigating the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and participating in local regattas, always eager to embark on her next maritime adventure.