Star Thrower Educational Multimedia (S.T.E.M.) Products: Weekly Newspaper Columns

Dive Dry with Dr. Bill

Weekly Newspaper Column

Dr. Bill Bushing writes a weekly newspaper column titled "Dive Dry with Dr. Bill." This column uses a humorous style to present topics in marine ecology, conservation and natural history. Each column includes a full-color digital image illustrating that week's subject.

Although specific audiences include SCUBA divers, free divers and fishers, the articles are also written to better inform the general public about our regional marine world including the kelp forests of southern California. Jacques Cousteau often said people protect what they love, and love what they know. Although divers have the most intimate acquaintance with our underwater world, it is important that all citizens, especially those living near our magnificent coastline, have some familiarity with its unique residents and their interactions, so they will be more informed about the need to protect them.

Passage of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) in California requires that a series of scientifically designed marine protected areas (MPA's) be established in California waters. This is to ensure relatively intact ecosystems are available for scientific research, education, and non-consumptive use. In addition these reserves fulfill an important role in providing stock to replenish surrounding areas where fishing and other consumptive uses occur, and fish or invertebrate stocks may be depleted.

Newspapers may subscribe to this column in a quartterly, semi-annual or annual basis. Subscription rates are based on readership, but are priced at attractive levels to help ensure a broader distribution. Please contact Dr. Bill for further information.

In the following list, the columns are presented chronologically.

Click on the following link to see each column: