This post is written for the “Save the Ocean” group-writing project.

I am not a fan of water sports. In fact, I am so hydrophobic that it took me tonnes of courage to learn swimming when I went to the university. My roommates had to practically drag me to the bus that would take us to the public pool every Monday. I hated the instructor for always making us “stand on water” because I couldn’t, for the life of me, do that! But of course, after a while, I kind of got the gist of it and towards the end of the semester, I was proud that I had actually learned how to swim.

But that doesn’t mean that I had successfully overcome my fear. I haven’t told you what happened when I took up SCUBA diving, have I? Oh well, that was very embarrassing, so I’d better leave it for another day :D

Anyway, we should be talking about surfing, shouldn’t we?

Image credit: Rodolfo Lace.

Now, if you are a surfer, or if you go to the beach frequently, here’s what you can do:

• Pick up any rubbish you see on the beach or in the water.
• Find out if it is safe to surf in your area, especially after a rain.
• Join a local surfer’s club or other ocean conservation groups working to protect local surf spots and improve beach water quality.
• Insist that developers and government officials include surf and wave quality in the environmental impact assessment.
• Respect those in the water with you, including marine animals. If you’re surfing at a popular beach, obey the rules on designated board surfing areas and times.

Recommended reads:

• Surfrider Foundation USA — A group of thousands of surfers dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches.
• Surfer Magazine
• Surfers Environmental Alliance — An all-volunteer, grassroots group dedicated to the cultural and environmental integrity of surfing. Based in Northern California and New Jersey.

January 2008 is “Save the Ocean” month here at The Giving Hands. Click here for more information on how you too, can save our oceans, and remember to subscribe to The Giving Hands for your daily updates!