Pender and its surrounding isles are blessed indeed. The seascape and landscape are soft and alluring, amongst the most attractive on the planet. But there is also an enigma, an air of mystery for the largest part of this area lies below the waves and is invisible and largely unknown. A seal head, a pod of orcas, a hauled-up crab trap give some insights into the watery world below. But they are mere glimpses.
To learn more I spoke with Derek Holzapfel, an enthusiastic SCUBA diver who has been exploring these waters for more than two decades. An expert underwater photographer, he is compiling a photo-catalogue of species using an underwater housing for his camera and a strobe/flash light. He is currently at 384 species. “This coastal area is phenomenal for diving,” he says, “The mixing of Pacific and Fraser River waters and the tidal currents yield a prolific and diverse abundance of life. It is best where the currents are strong, such as Tilley and Brooks Points.”
When I asked about his favourite moments, he answered, “I dove with some California sea lions and they were playful like puppies, playing and tugging on my equipment. But best of all,” he continued, “I love the tranquility of being underwater alone.”
But it is not always peaceful. Two years ago while diving in Shingle Bay, Holzapfel was attacked by a ten-foot Pacific Octopus at a depth of 70 feet. Fortunately, after a brief tug of war, the octo released him.
But all is not well in the watery world. The salmon that anglers once found in profusion are now elusive. Eelgrass, a critical part of the coastal habitat, is relatively unhealthy in the Gulf Islands compared to the west side of Vancouver Island. Hundreds of crab-trap buoys dot the water. And I won’t even get into the effluent from industry, boats and a large surrounding population.
Perhaps some protection is in order for the mysterious world under the waves. Perhaps the National Marine Conservation Area proposed for the southern Strait of Georgia is a good idea. Perhaps it will help Holzapfel increase his catalogue to 500 species.
More Information
- Holzapfel’s web site with superb underwater photos: www.naturediver.com
- Pender Island Chamber of Commerce: www.penderislandchamber.com
- National Marine Conservation Area: www.pc.gc.ca/progs/amnc-nmca/cnamnc-cnnmca/dgs-ssg/index_e.asp
Photos
From the top: Baby seal riding on mom's back; Derek Holzapfel; Alabaster nudibranch; Cabezon with eggs; Sunflower star (last 3 photos by Derek Holzapfel)
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