SCUBA DIVING
New Routine for SCUBA divers |
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| Due to changes in the park’s insurance, the Diving Den now has complete control of all SCUBA diving activities at France Park. Effective immediately, all SCUBA divers must: | ||
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| The Diving Den is a full service and sales SCUBA diving facility with a 5-star rating from PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors. The Diving Den can be reached at 765-432-5274 (Linda Stough) or e-mailed to info@divingden.com . | ||
| Questions about these changes may be directed to France Park at (574) 753-2928 or e-mailed to fpark@francepark.com . |
France Park Diving Features |
Many SCUBA divers use the Old Kenith Stone Quarry for this exciting recreational pursuit because of the many features to explore. Diving in the clear water of an old stone quarry allows SCUBA divers to easily view the obstacles within -both natural and man made. Years ago, divers have placed things at the bottom of the quarry to enjoy & explore - things like an 1940's school bus, an old pick-up truck, a culvert, a communication station and a fish habitat. In addition, there are still some remains from the quarry operations like this set of train wheels. |
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Spoonbill Sturgeon |
One of the most spectacular sites seen by SCUBA divers at France Park is the Spoonbill Sturgeon, also known as the paddlefish (polyodon spathula).The Spoonbill is distinguished by its elongated, paddle-shaped snout. This unusual fish can reach up to 6 feet in length and 200 pounds in weight. Its sturgeon like features include a strongly upturned tail and they lack scales, except on the tail. It feeds on planktonic animals, which it filters out of the water with its long gillrakers on the inside of its throat. |
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This fish is of particular biological interest in that it
represents one of the most primitive groups of fishes and has a cartilaginous
frame. The Spoonbill first developed 20 - 40 million years ago in the Eocene
age, which is why geologists consider it a living fossil. |
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SCUBA diver, Andy Spurgeon of Winamac took
this photo |
Many SCUBA divers have reported that the Spoonbill is docile and approachable. If the fish decides to move away, it will do so with a "sudden burst of power." Its large tail makes movement for the fish quick and easy.
Below: Divers take advantage of our remarkable, clear waters year round. |
France Park Air Station owned & operated by:
Diving Den, Inc.
France Park Location
Air 5000p.s.i. Rentals - Sales
Air Refill Station open weekends,
May 6, 2000 through October 29, 2000
Air Refill 80 cft. Tank: $5.00
Rental Prices at France Park
Tank |
$8.00 |
| Regulator w/ Octo. console, LP hose | $10.00 |
| Buoyancy Compensator | $10.00 |
| Wet Suit 1/4 " | $15.00 |
| Hood | $3.00 |
| Gloves | $3.00 |
| Boots | $3.00 |
| Mask | $2.00 |
| Shorty 1/8" | $6.00 |
| Weight belt with 20 # lead | $4.00 |
| Fins | $2.00 |
| Weight Belt only | $2.00 |
| Weights per 5 lb. piece | $.50 |
| Snorkel gear | $5.00 |
 | Links Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) |
