Virtually dive Flower Garden Banks

The U.S. is home to many underwater treasures, but for most Americans, these sights aren’t accessible even though half the country’s population lives within 50 miles of a coast. But, less than 5 percent, according to estimates, actively dive or snorkel. However, there’s a new online project - Virtual Dive Gallery - headed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration that can give anyone an experience of these underwater wonders without getting wet. All you need is a smartphone, tablet or computer. Virtual Dive Gallery allows users to explore national marine sanctuaries online - five are already available with a 360-degree views - including the bleached corals in the Gulf of Mexico’s Flower Garden Banks, off the coasts of Louisiana and Texas; and invasive species of Lion Fish that are creating havoc in GoM-area waters. NOAA plans to add more virtual dives to the gallery. NOAA's aim is to add a new virtual dive spot monthly, with plans to include all 13 U.S. marine sanctuaries. (Source: Huffington Post 05/25/17)