What are the Caspar Cove Project Efforts at Caspar Cove?

A: The Caspar Cove Project is an experimental monthly community diving event held at Caspar Cove in collaboration with passionate ocean enthusiasts, divers, and snorkelers. The event aims to remove invasive sea urchins to promote kelp reforestation and restore the marine ecosystem's health.

Q: When and where does the event take place?

A: The Sea Urchin Removal Efforts event is held once a month, usually the last weekend of the month, at Caspar Cove, located along the beautiful coastline of Mendocino, CA. Joshua Russo from the Watermen's Alliance will be at Caspar Cove bright and early to help answer any questions and support you in your diving efforts. 

Specific dates and meeting points will be announced via our newsletter (sign up now), on our website and social media platforms. Alternatively, if you cannot make the monthly community events you can crush purple sea urchins (not red) at Caspar Cove there anytime. The department has lifted the recreational limit on purple sea urchins in Caspar Cove for this project.

Q: Where is a good place to stay?

A: While visiting Caspar Cove, CA, there are several accommodation options nearby that offer a comfortable and scenic stay. Here's a list of places to consider:

1. Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground: This campground offers RV sites, tent camping, and cabins with ocean views, just a short distance from Caspar Cove.

2. Little River Inn: A charming oceanfront hotel with well-appointed rooms, cottages, and suites, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

3. Stanford Inn by the Sea: An eco-resort nestled on the Mendocino Coast with cozy rooms, suites, and eco-friendly amenities.

4. Mendocino Grove: A glamping retreat with safari-style tents and modern amenities, providing a unique nature-inspired experience.

5. Coast Inn and Spa: A boutique hotel located in nearby Fort Bragg, offering comfortable rooms and a spa for relaxation.

6. Check out places to rent on AirBNB or VRBO

Q: Does Josh still reserve a group campsite at the Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground?

A: As of May 1, 2024 Josh is no longer reserving the group campsite at the Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground. You will need to make your own lodging/camping arrangements.

Q: How can I participate in the Sea Urchin Removal Efforts?

A: Anyone interested in supporting experimental marine conservation is welcome to participate. Whether you are an experienced diver or new to underwater activities. Prior diving experience is helpful but not required.

Q: Do I need to bring my own diving or snorkeling gear?

A: Yes! Participants will need to bring their own diving/snorkeling gear.

Q: What gear do I need to dive for Sea Urchins?

Snorkeling

• Diving Mask: A high-quality diving mask with a snug fit to provide clear vision underwater and protect your eyes.

• Snorkel: A snorkel allows you to breathe while at the surface, conserving your air supply when observing sea urchins from above.

• Wetsuit: A wetsuit provides thermal protection and helps maintain body temperature in colder waters. The water temperature in Northern California is about 50-56 degrees F. It is suggested that you have a 7mm wetsuit.

• Gloves: Diving gloves protect your hands from sharp spines of sea urchins and other potential hazards.

• Hammer: A welding hammer or hammer are useful for smashing sea urchins

• Mesh Bag or Container: A mesh bag or container is used to store the collected sea urchins safely during the dive if you would like to harvest sea urchins

• Weight Belt and Weights: To maintain proper buoyancy and control underwater, you will need a weight belt with appropriate weights.

• Fins: Diving fins enable efficient movement underwater and help you navigate through the water easily.

Scuba diving

• All of the equipment listed above plus the equipment listed below:

• Regulator Set: The regulator set delivers air from your scuba tank to your mouth, allowing you to breathe underwater.

• Dive Computer: A dive computer tracks your dive depth, time, and nitrogen levels, helping you plan a safe ascent and prevent decompression sickness.

• Scuba Tank: The scuba tank holds compressed air for your dive, providing you with the necessary air supply.

• PLEASE Note a compressor will be available at the event to fill up your air tank

Q: Where can I find diving equipment?

A: There are lots of great diving shops in and around the Bay Area. It’s relatively cheap to rent equipment. Unfortunately, the Watermen's Alliance will not be able to provide diving equipment. Here are a few diving shop recommendations:

• San Francisco - Bamboo Reef

• Marin - Marin Diving Center

• Novato - Pinnacles Dive Center

• Santa Rosa - Seals Watersports

Q: Do I need a fishing license to participate?

A: Yes! You will need to obtain a valid California recreational fishing license.

Q: Is there a way to keep track of all of the purple sea urchins culled/killed at Caspar Cove?

A: Yes! So that we can keep track of all of the sea urchins culled/killed at Caspar Cove we ask that you complete the Caspar Dive Log. 

Q: Is there an age limit to participate in the event?

A: Participants must be at least 12 years old to participate in the diving activities. For younger individuals or those who prefer not to dive, we welcome shoreline helpers to support the removal efforts.

Q: Is there a cost to participate in the Sea Urchin Removal Efforts?

A: Participation in the event is free of charge. The Watermen's Alliance is committed to promoting community engagement and making marine conservation accessible to all.

Q: Can I volunteer for multiple events or become a regular participant?

A: Absolutely! We encourage regular participation and welcome volunteers who are committed to making a positive impact on our coastal ecosystems. Regular participants help build a strong community focused on marine conservation. Please sign up for our newsletter.

Q: How can I stay updated about upcoming events and activities?

A: Stay connected with us through our website and social media channels for the latest event dates, registration details, and other announcements. You can also subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates.

Q: Is there anything I should bring or prepare for the event?

A: We recommend participants bring sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, diving gear and any personal items they may need. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring a positive attitude and enthusiasm for marine conservation!

Q: I am interested in collecting some for our compost and yard waste for our gardens. Do you know of a collection site with urchin remains?

A: You can check with the sea urchin processors in Fort Bragg for large amounts or come to an event and ask for help collecting. Our divers are always willing to collaborate on new projects.

Q: How can I support the Sea Urchin Removal Efforts if I cannot attend the event?

A: If you cannot participate in person, you can still support our cause by spreading the word about the importance of sea urchin removal and kelp reforestation. Donations and sponsorships are also greatly appreciated and contribute to the success of our conservation efforts.

If you have any other questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to seeing you at the Sea Urchin Removal Efforts event at Caspar Cove!