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Hi Carl. That really sucks! I understand how security personal can be a
little curious about our little subs, and maybe even put restrictions on them
being used around harbors or sensitive areas. The so-called "drug subs" aren't
doing us any favors either. We had a guy from the FBI talk at the 2007
convention, and he said it was generally OK to have and use a sub for
recreation. I'm sure they have someone monitoring this mail list, and probably
have done background checks on everyone that gets on here. Although I'm not a
big fan of snoopy government, at this point there's nothing we can do about
that. We're just a bunch of old guys playing with a new type of toy
that most people just wouldn't get into, let alone spend thousands and many
hours trying to build.
I think that if we as a group maintain high safety standards ( like Jon's
comments remind us of ) and promote this sport in a non-threatening way, we are
doing all we can as a group.
Now, as individuals in our own geographical are, there may be instances
where local officials get a little paranoid about learning there's some guy out
there building a submarine that they may see as threatening.
I think that discussing the proposed craft with them up front, and
involving as many "experts" as locally available, may help them understand that
we're in it for the fun and adventure.
I plan on having some interaction with students and faculty of the local
schools, and with their help, produce some educational materials that I'm hoping
will inspire the kids to explore other less common avenues of education.
I haven't run into any road blocks YET, and did in fact have a visit from
the local sheriff's department. I have nothing to hide so am not really worried,
but the more public you make your little project, the easier it will be to
reassure the people concerned with security and defense that we're not a
threat.
Maybe you should go have a talk with the harbor master, and explain what
your going to do. Keep the whole affair out in the open, and invite anyone who
may be suspicious about your endeavor to join in.
These guys are human and probably curious too. We should try as individuals
to emphasize the fun aspect of our sport, and maybe show them that these can be
useful as educational tools. Let's face it, these things are so slow, I just
can't see where they could really be used as a weapon. Add to that the short
range, and limited carrying capacity, and they just aren't suited for anything
much other than cruising around and looking at stuff.
Again, if we as a group keep this open and inviting to anyone who is
curious, and share our sport openly, I'm hoping we avoid any serious
restrictions on the use of our subs. Frank D. It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here. |