Lake of Iseo/ Credaro/ Progetto PADI Aware Reef Ball Project

In November 2001 the Project A.W.A.R.E. Foundation was able to cross the boarder to Italy for the year’s last project. The construction site was the small village of Lovere at the Lake of Iseo. Some years ago the DC involved “Adrenalin Water Sport Center” set the goal to persuade the public that not only the Mediterranean, but also the Italian lakes in general are very attractive diving resorts. In order to make the small Lake of Iseo more competitive against the famous lakes like Lake Maggiore or Lake Como, he was very interested in the concept of Reef Balls. After being given a diversified and substantial presentation by the shop owner Massimo Catarsi, the authorities of the province of Bergamo were not only willing to grant the permission, but also to support the project financially and scientifically. Subsequently the local experts agreed on constructing one reef of 30 balls with the original Reef Ball moulds in Lovere and additionally two with a completely round shape in Tavernola and Predore. The different shape of latter reefs was chosen on purpose to see if it had consequences for the quality, quantity and kind of development. As this was the first project ever to be realised in Italy, a careful monitoring of the habitat for the minimum of three years was granted easily. In addition they consented on making observations once a month in the first year and to use the results to trigger more sensitivity for environmental issues especially among the young. For that purpose they focus on arrangements with schools and the media.