This dive site is the Richmond Vale Coral Nursery, established on June 3rd, 2020, by the Climate Compliance Team from Richmond Vale Academy. It serves as an active conservation effort, demonstrating the importance of coral reef rehabilitation. The nursery currently features three coral trees dedicated to growing Elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) fragments, which were carefully collected from two different locations. The site offers an educational and inspiring dive experience, showcasing human efforts to restore marine ecosystems.
Divers and snorkelers can observe the growing Elkhorn coral fragments attached to the coral trees. As the nursery develops, it attracts various juvenile reef fish, small crustaceans, and other macro life seeking shelter and food within the branching corals. While large pelagic animals are uncommon, the focus here is on the intricate beauty of the developing coral polyps and the smaller organisms that colonize this burgeoning artificial reef.
The best time to visit this dive site, like much of the Caribbean, is generally outside of hurricane season (June to November), with optimal conditions from December to May offering calm seas and excellent visibility. Divers are encouraged to maintain good buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the delicate coral fragments and to observe the ongoing growth. It's an excellent site for macro photography and for those interested in marine conservation.
