Gear recommendations for Gilboa at the M&G?

[wolfen42]

Thanks so much for all the helpful/useful info!

If I remember correctly, we wont be allowed in the deep end in Gilboa till we have 30 or more cold water dives under our belt so we'll be exploring the "shallow" end quite thoroughly...

 

[Barracuda2]

Thanks so much for all the helpful/useful info!

If I remember correctly, we wont be allowed in the deep end in Gilboa till we have 30 or more cold water dives under our belt so we'll be exploring the "shallow" end quite thoroughly...

You need AOW cert., 30 cold water dives, redundant gas, and file a detailed dive plan with Mike.

 

[wolfen42]

You need AOW cert., 30 cold water dives, redundant gas, and file a detailed dive plan with Mike.

Do you know what the reasoning is for the redundant gas? Issues with people consuming more gas than they expect at depth because of the cold?

 

[gtxl1200]

Do you know what the reasoning is for the redundant gas? Issues with people consuming more gas than they expect at depth because of the cold?

It is Just Mikes policy. He has had a lot of accidents there. This is just one way to protect himself and the divers. Trust me dont fret over it. There really isnt that much to see on the Dark side or other wise known as the deep side it is cold dark and just a few small things to see. All the attractions and things to do are on the shallow side. which you can still reach a respectable and chilly 63 feet at the tubes.

 

[hollywood703]

I would also suggest looking at an Oceanic GT3, they are environmentally sealled. I use it for Great Lakes Diving over 100 ft numerous times, and have no issues what so ever. It is very cost effective. I would also recommend you try several regs not only for breathing ease but for fit, and weight to reduce jaw fatigue.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

Do you know what the reasoning is for the redundant gas? Issues with people consuming more gas than they expect at depth because of the cold?

A pony bottle or doubles give you an additional option if you experience a free flow at depth. Personally, in cold water I never dive without redundancy period. I don't care about the depth. Very cold water (30s and 40s) is a huge risk factor. Equipment malfunctions, fingers stop working and things can go south in a hurry. Gilboa has had way too many deaths and other then those that have been caused by a medical emergency, they are all preventable.

Regardless of what Mike's requirements are, until you have more experience and the proper equipment, you don't want to be on the deep side. Nothing much there to see. The vast majority of the cool stuff is on the shallow side in 60' or less of water. The deep side is the best place around to train for wreck diving in the Great Lakes however. But take it slow, ease into it and gradually increase your experience level. That's the key way accidents are prevented.

 

[Ber Rabbit]

Do you know what the reasoning is for the redundant gas? Issues with people consuming more gas than they expect at depth because of the cold?

Once you get below 60 feet the water is cold enough to make free flows a real concern. Failure to properly handle a free flow is what seems to cause the accidents at the quarry. Redundant gas gives you a safe option for handling the free flow. Over there it's not IF you'll see a free flow in your diving career, it's WHEN. Doesn't necessarily have to be you but at some point you'll see a free flowing reg down there.

People on the surface near the deep dock get REALLY nervous when they start seeing those bubbles. It's definitely something that attracts everyone's attention and it's in part because of the history of negative outcomes. A free flow isn't a big deal if handled properly, failure to properly handle it can be fatal. Knowledge and redundant gas give you a better chance of handling one properly. The deep side of the quarry does not forgive mistakes.
Ber :lilbunny:

 

[trucker girl]

There is some great advice in this thread.

Paula's SI advice is good- plan to drink/eat warm stuff, too. Cup-O-Soup is nice and easy.

Last fall I was freezing between dives- when I took my sweat shirt off I was suddenly much warmer. Why? When I put it on, I was wet, so it absorbed the water. I should have swapped sweatshirts once I dried off more. Lots-O-Sweatshirts.

 

[bladephotog]

If you haven't been to Gilboa here's some PHOTOS to give you an idea of what to expect.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

If you haven't been to Gilboa here's some PHOTOS to give you an idea of what to expect.

The shot of the trailor on the deep end gives you an idea of what to expect. That's at about 120' and it's 38-40 F year round down there. Not a place to be unless your ready for it by having the proper equipment and experience/training.