Summary

To increase public awareness of underwater parks within the California State Park System, the California Department of Parks and Recreation puts on Underwater Parks Day each year. This year, the Ecosystem Electronics Lab was asked to set up a live ROV demo in Whaler’s Cove at Point Lobos, so the non-diving public could explore the undersea world of a kelp forest and see first-hand what lives beneath the waves. Over two dozen visitors ranging in age from about 3 to 70 got a chance to pilot the ROV during the 4 hour event, and several of the younger pilots were delighted when a friendly harbor seal repeatedly stuck its face in the ROV camera!

Student Involvement

Eight (8) students assisted with set-up and dismantling of the demo. They included two students greeting guests at the table, 3 scuba divers, and 2 sea kayakers.

Broader Significance

Ocean conservation starts with ocean awareness. Giving non-diving kids (both young and old) a chance to explore the underwater world of a kelp forest first hand through the use of ROV technology not only gives them a chance to connect with the ocean but helps them become curious about the role of technology in modern ocean science and exploration.