Group Forms to Sink Ships off LA
The Sunken Treasures Society of Los Angeles (STLA) has filed its Articles and Bylaws as a non-profit corporation after forming a “blue ribbon” board to cooperate with California Ships-To-Reefs (CS2R) and sister organizations state-wide in the creation of a “sink fleet” along our coast.
“Sunken ships as cultured reefs are ecological and economic treasures”, says Communications Chief for STLA, Harvey Schmiedeke. “We have brought together a group of seasoned dive industry professionals and enthusiasts to enhance fish populations and make California a world-class dive destination. Fortunately, we have CS2R’s help and can build on the successful experience of pioneering ship-to-reef regions like Florida and British Columbia.
Including Mr. Schmiedeke who founded Sunken Treasures as an ad hoc group last year, and who coordinates its PR efforts, the new board includes Jerry Nickelsburg of California Wreck Divers, Bill Strong of Hollywoodivers, Eric Frasco of the Greater LA Council of Divers, and Gary Jackson of the Dive Boat Captain’s Association. About a dozen other members have come forward, heading committees for sink site and ship selection, fundraising, legal and PR, ship preparation and the many functions require coordinated locally.
STLA began meeting about six months ago following a “Call to Action” by California Ships to Reefs, an organization spearheaded by the founder of Divers Unlimited International, Dick Long. Dick headed Project Yukon which successfully sank the 366-foot destroyer escort, HMCS Yukon in Mission Bay in 2001. Since that time studies have confirmed the broad economic benefits of the cultured reef, which brings $4.5 million annually to the San Diego economy, and the ecological benefits in increasing fish populations. CS2R is coordinating state and federal agency contacts and approvals for STLA and similar regional groups in Orange County, Catalina and San Francisco.
Currently, Sunken Treasures is investigating three possible sink locations and has launched a broad public education effort to the groups who stand to reap the broad benefits of the program. Speakers are available for clubs and organizations and Project Representatives are prepared to meet with interested political, ecological, civic and industry leaders. Interested parties should call Harvey at 1-818-276-1000 and or e-mail harveyssi@hotmail.com.