Diving in February?

The underwater crime scene class took its first “real” dive Feb. 20 at Vortex Springs. The class of eight previously only had dive experience in a pool.

The class and two instructors traveled to Holmes County to gorgeous, crystal clear Vortex Springs, which stays at a chilly 68 degrees year round. Brimming with bream (pun intended) and large carp, the second you hit the water these googly-eyed fish swarm you, bristling with curiosity.

The class performed two separate dives. The first was to get a feel for being out of the pool and to demonstrate basic diving skills, and the second allowed students to explore and play.

During the intermission of the two dives, the class grilled hamburgers on provided grills on the grounds of the spring.

The next class dive will be March 6 at St. Andrews State Park.

— Ashlyn Jernigan

contributing writer