A group known as P.E.I. Scuba Divers has successfully conducted an underwater cleanup at the North Rustico wharf, leading to improved water quality in the area. The initiative, which involved a team of divers, including Kelly Campbell, aimed at giving back to the community while enjoying time in the water.
According to Campbell, the collaboration with local fishermen, who provide diving tips and opportunities, inspired the cleanup effort as a way to show appreciation. The divers, equipped with mesh bags, focused on collecting debris from underneath the boats near the wharf, typically diving no deeper than 20 to 30 feet.
Among the items retrieved during the cleanup were expected fishing harbor waste such as broken boards and trailer parts, alongside unexpected finds like a fisherman’s lost cellphone and a vintage Pepsi bottle. Campbell expressed surprise at the relatively clean state of the harbor bottom, noting the uncovering of historical artifacts during the cleanup.
Benefiting from warmer water temperatures during the cleanup, with some divers even forgoing hoods and gloves, the team plans to continue similar initiatives in the upcoming spring season. Those interested in organizing a cleanup in their local harbor can connect with the P.E.I. Scuba Divers group through their Facebook page.