This month’s #NAUIDiveSpotlight is proud to highlight Micah Reese, a NAUI Instructor (NAUI #26060) and Dive Safety Officer at the Oregon Zoo, whose passion for marine conservation and education has shaped an inspiring new initiative: an Interpretive Dive Program. This program and Micah’s vision perfectly align with NAUI’s Mission to promote safe, practical underwater education while fostering a deep appreciation for the world’s underwater environments.
From Concept to Conservation
When Micah first joined the zoo a decade ago, the dive program was primarily functional. Volunteers would hop into the zoo’s aquarium to clean windows, scrub floors, and vacuum. However, inspired by an interpretive program he saw as a teenager while visiting Epcot, Micah envisioned much more. He saw an opportunity to turn the routine maintenance dives into engaging and interactive educational experiences that could spark curiosity and inspire a love for marine life.
Driven by his lifelong passion for the ocean and diving, Micah worked with the zoo’s education team to introduce the Interpretive Dive Program. The aim was clear: to interact with guests of all ages, deliver conservation messages, and leave visitors educated and inspired—perhaps even planting the seed for future divers, zookeepers, and marine conservationists.
“I wanted the program to give back,” Micah says, “to create a platform where people leave with some knowledge and inspiration.”
Connecting Conservation with Interactive Learning
One of the most exciting aspects of the program is how it educates the public about the interconnectedness of marine life and ecosystems. Imagine this: During a dive in the zoo’s kelp forest exhibit, the team shares the story of the Oregon sea otters—how their population was decimated by over-hunting in the 1800s, and the ripple effect this had on the local ecosystem, leading to the rise of urchins and the loss of kelp forests. This type of firsthand educational experience brings the message of conservation to life for zoo visitors in a way that’s both impactful and memorable.
The program also focuses on engaging with the community. Whether it’s a young child’s first time seeing a diver up close or an adult hearing about ocean conservation efforts, the interaction opens up a perfect pathway to important conversations about our role in preserving these environments.
“We’re not just divers—we’re educators, stewards of the ocean,” says Micah. “If we can inspire someone to take up scuba diving or care more about the ocean, it’s worth every effort.”
Building the Next Generation of Conservation Divers
Micah’s vision goes beyond just raising awareness. He hopes that by introducing visitors to scuba diving and the ocean in an engaging and accessible way, the Interpretive Dive Program will help create a new generation of divers or marine biologists who care about the environment.
“I’d like to see more divers who are savvy about ocean care and conservation. My goal is to help create stewards of the ocean who dive with a purpose, who continue this work long after I’m gone.”
Through programs like these, Micah hopes to inspire others to take action, whether by pursuing a career in marine conservation or simply learning more about their local environment. He believes that everyone can make a difference and that education is the first step.
NAUI’s Role in Supporting Safe, Educational Diving
Micah’s program aligns seamlessly with NAUI’s commitment to the highest standards of safety and education in underwater activities. As a NAUI Instructor and Dive Safety Officer, Micah ensures that all dives at the zoo meet all safety protocols while offering volunteers and staff the chance to deepen their diving skills and knowledge.
The zoo also offers staff the opportunity to become dive-certified as part of their continuing education. Micah, a NAUI Instructor, leads these courses, introduces divers to NAUI, and introduces our motto of ‘Dive Safety Through Education.’
The Oregon zoo is an AAUS (American Academy of Underwater Sciences) facility, emphasizing the importance of scientific diving and responsible ocean stewardship. Through Micah’s leadership, the Oregon Zoo creates more aware, responsible divers and contributes to marine research and conservation.
Looking to the Future
As the Interpretive Dive Program grows, so does its potential to influence and inspire. Micah is working to expand the program, bringing it to other zoo areas, including the seal habitat, where visitors can observe divers interacting with these majestic animals. His team is also exploring incorporating more scripted shows and interactive presentations to further engage guests.
Ultimately, Micah’s work is a testament to the power of passion and education. His work shows how a simple idea—born out of a personal experience he had at a young age—can grow into a meaningful program that touches countless lives, sparks an interest in people of all ages, and helps safeguard the ocean for future generations.
Programs like this remind divers and non-divers that the ocean’s future is in our hands, and it all starts with education, inspiration, and a love for the underwater world.
Are you ready to take the plunge and make a difference? Learn more about how you can get involved in diving and conservation efforts at your local zoo or aquarium, or contact your local NAUI representative to find out how to start your diving journey today!