A diver uses a slate to record underwater observations.

The use of diving, specifically with SCUBA, to collect or directly observe marine organisms in situ, is a recognized, scientifically valid technique. No other technique currently in use gives the researcher the resolution afforded by direct observation, or the ability to observe behavior without the limitations imposed by laboratory experiments.

The MarineFisheries Scientific Diving Program was established in the late 1970s to ensure that all scientific diving under the auspices of Marine Fisheries be conducted so as to promote the protection of scientific divers from accidental injury and/or illness, and to set forth standards for training, certification, and diving operations. In 1989, the Marine Fisheries Diving Policy was updated to comply with scientific diving protocols established by the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) and the scientific diving exemption from the OSHA commercial diving standards. This policy established certification, health, and equipment standards as well as a Diving Control Board (DCB) to enforce these standards. The DCB ensures that all of MarineFisheries divers are qualified to work as scientific divers. The Marine Fisheries Policy also provides for the appointment of a Diving Safety Officer (DSO) to conduct the day-to-day operation of the diving program and ensure operational safety.

American Academy of Underwater Sciences http://www.aaus.org/
Divers Alert Network http://www.diversalertnetwork.org
NOAA Homepage http://www.noaa.gov