Dive Site Rating System
An assessment of biological population densities with the dive site area using generalized and/or estimated quantitative measurements.
No stars: Void of any life – barren.
★ 10 or less different observable species sessile (fixed), and 5 or less observable motile (free-swimming floating) species: both in an unevenly dispersed or distributed area within the dive site area.
★★ 10 to 20 different observable species sessile and 5 to 10 observable motile species: both in an unevenly dispersed or distributed area within the dive site area.
★★★ 10 to 20 different observable species sessile and 5 to 10 observable motile species: evenly dispersed and distributed throughout the dive site area.
★★★★ More than 20 different observable species sessile and more than 10 observable motile species: but NOT evenly dispersed or distributed throughout the dive site area.
★★★★★ An amount of observable species both sessile and motile too numerous to count and evenly dispersed and distributed throughout the entire dive site area.
The factors above are individually evaluated by each discipline of divers. By averaging these scores, we assign a dive site rating of 0 to 5 stars.
For example, if the freedivers in the group give the following scores for each category:
The total rating given to the dive site given by the freedivers is:
★★★★
Biodiversity
★★★★
Biodensity
★★★★
Topography
★★★★★
Uniqueness
★★★
Manageability
★★★★★
Ecological Condition
★★★
These dive site ratings were created by EDSBC members who maintain a diversity of professional qualifications and tenure. The rating system was created using systemized analysis and is subject to change. The dive site ratings are created using an analysis and comparison to other cold water dive sites on the west coast of Canada. The assessment process incorporates various key quantitative and qualitative factors.
The dive site ratings were based on a spectrum of elements relevant and specific to cold water environments only. Further, these ratings provide only a baseline and do not take into consideration the subjective experiences of each individual diver and therefore the overall ratings may be inconsistent with one's personal biases. Everybody should reference the site descriptions and each of the specific factors to gain a more accurate understanding of the sites distinctive qualities.