1) You did your first REEF survey on July 15, 2001 at La Jolla Canyon. What got you started?
My first REEF class where I taught Fish ID and REEF surveys was around January 16, 2007. It came about when the San Diego Oceans Foundation decided to participate in REEF projects. I picked up the ball and I have modified the presentations several times over the years and with the support of Ocean Enterprises Dive Shop allowing us to use their classroom, I have been able to continue to teach both Inverts/Algae and Fish ID since then. I then started my own REEF surveys after each dive.
2) When and where did you do your 1,000th survey? Tell us anything memorable about it?
For my 1000th dive we dove the La Jolla Shores Gorgonian Garden, which is a deep spot in the La Jolla Submarine canyon that features both purple and red gorgonians, our own juvenile wolffish, cabezon, rockfish of all sorts, shrimps, and about a dozen species of slugs and other nudibranchs during the seasons.
3) In which regions have you done surveys? What experience levels are you in those other regions? Do you have any favorite dive spots in those places?
I am a REEF level 5 surveyor for PAC/CAL. My favorite dive spot is the Gorgonian Garden at La Jolla Shores.
4) What are some of your favorite fishes or invertebrates? What makes them your favorite?
My favorite fish is the Giant Kelp Fish or the Vermilion Rockfish. My favorite invertebrate is the Opalescent Nudibranch or the Spanish Shawl.
5) What is your favorite thing/memory about REEF and the Volunteer Survey Project?
I have taught over 500 students to do REEF surveys. My favorite memory is when they say "hello" and I don't remember their name.
6) What are your goals with REEF for the future?
I plan to continue REEF classes and continue doing REEF surveys as long as I am able.