Diving atI-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site (United States)
The I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site offers divers a planned artificial reef experience, consistently resting at a recreational depth of 30 m (100 ft). Its consistent depth allows for extended bottom times within no-decompression limits for many certified divers. Its composition, primarily concrete reefballs, creates varied habitat structures at a uniform level, encouraging marine colonization.
Early observations for I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site report a surface air temperature of 23.7°C. The water surface is currently presenting wave heights of 0.3m. Consider these environmental metrics before beginning your descent.
Dive Site Coordinates
27.2846, -82.5977
Dive Site Overview
An array of artificial structures defines the I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site. Composed primarily of 30 concrete reefballs, this site sits as one component within a broader Lynn Silvertooth artificial reef complex deployed in Sarasota County.
These intentionally placed modules aim to enhance recreational diving and fishing opportunities, simultaneously restoring marine habitat lost to coastal development. Other sections within the greater Lynn Silvertooth complex incorporate diverse materials such as concrete rubble, bridge pilings, and bridge decking with rails, creating a varied underwater landscape.
With a maximum depth of 30 m (100 ft) and a relief of 3 meters (10 ft) for the Parrot Head section, these structures provide immediate shelter and attachment points for marine organisms. Divers navigating to these artificial reefs should utilize GPS coordinates (e.g., WAAS for this site) and be aware that LORAN data can have a precision variance of 18-36 meters (60-120 ft).
Locating the specific reef structure typically involves marking the coordinates with a weighted float, then conducting an outward spiral search with depth profile equipment.
Best Time to Dive
Visibility conditions at the I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site are generally favorable during the warmer months, making May through September an excellent period for diving. During these months, average wave heights are typically lower, often around 0.35-0.49 meters (1-1.6 ft), contributing to clearer water. Air temperatures range from 25.74-28.33°C (78-83°F) in this peak season. Rainfall is more variable, with August seeing higher averages around 9.29mm (0.37 inches), which might influence nearshore visibility. The remaining months, from October through April, still offer good diving conditions, characterized by cooler average air temperatures, ranging from 15.45-24.34°C (60-76°F), and somewhat higher average wave heights, between 0.57-0.77 meters (1.9-2.5 ft). Specific water temperature data for the site is not consistently reported, but often correlates with ambient air temperatures in shallower sections. Overall, the consistent good-to-excellent dive scores throughout the year suggest stable conditions for planning a trip.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Approaching the I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site requires diligent navigation, as these artificial reefs are precisely placed. Divers should expect to use GPS coordinates, which are accurate to within 18-36 meters (60-120 ft), and then deploy a weighted float to pinpoint the exact reef location. An outward spiral search using depth sounder equipment is recommended for finding the reef structures. Once descended, divers will encounter the solid concrete reefballs providing approximately 3 meters (10 ft) of vertical relief. This forms an immediate focal point for exploring the developing marine growth and attracting fish life. The overall dive experience is a structured exploration of these man-made habitats. Depths are consistently in the recreational range, allowing for ample bottom time. Conditions below the surface vary, but generally reflect the prevailing surface weather, particularly wave action impacting water clarity.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Several environmental and navigational considerations are important when diving the I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site. Avoiding propeller cuts through seagrass beds is crucial, as these scars take up to ten years to heal and disrupt vital marine nursery areas. Divers must exercise extreme caution in shallow waters. Manatees, a protected species, inhabit these waters; their safety relies on human awareness and careful boat operation to prevent injuries from motor vessels. Finally, divers should never tie off to buoys, as they may not be secured for mooring. Utilizing a weighted float and conducting a controlled search upon arrival ensures responsible interaction with this artificial reef system. Always maintain awareness of boat traffic.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
For divers planning standard recreational dives, 3-5mm wetsuit is usually a suitable option. Divers vary widely in how quickly they feel cold underwater.
Conditions at I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site currently place the water temperature near 23°C (74°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (75°F).
The upcoming forecast points to generally steady conditions in the area.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site
An artificial reef, the I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site functions as a critical marine habitat. It rapidly attracts and supports a diverse range of marine life. Divers can observe various fish species taking refuge within the crevices of the concrete reefballs and congregating around the structure. Significant growth thrives on these two-year-old structures. Nearby seagrass beds, vital nursery areas, further enrich the ecosystem by providing abundant food and shelter for juvenile fish and other organisms. This creates a vibrant ecosystem around the purposely deployed modules.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average depth of the I-1, Lynn Silvertooth, RB-Parrot Head Site?
The artificial reef site consistently sits at a depth of 30 m (100 ft). This makes it suitable for certified recreational divers seeking a deeper, yet accessible, experience.
What materials make up this artificial reef?
RB-Parrot Head Site specifically consists of 30 concrete reefballs. Other sections of the broader Lynn Silvertooth artificial reef complex incorporate various materials, including concrete rubble, bridge pilings, and bridge decking with rails.
Is this site suitable for beginner divers?
While the depth of 30 m (100 ft) is within recreational limits, proper navigation and comfort with deeper diving are recommended. Strong currents or reduced visibility could present additional challenges, making it more suitable for advanced open water divers or those comfortable with moderate conditions.
What are the best months for diving this site?
May through September are generally considered excellent months due to lower average wave heights and warmer air temperatures. These conditions typically contribute to better visibility, enhancing the overall dive experience. However, good conditions can be found year-round.
How accurate are the provided GPS coordinates for the site?
GPS coordinates, such as WAAS, are generally precise. However, LORAN coordinates for artificial reefs can have a variance of 18-36 meters (60-120 ft). Divers should be prepared to use a weighted float and an outward spiral search to accurately locate the reef.
Are there any specific environmental guidelines for diving here?
Yes, it's crucial to avoid propeller cuts through seagrass beds, as they are vital nurseries for marine life. Divers should also be aware that manatees inhabit these waters and require careful boat operation to prevent injury. Additionally, do not tie off to buoys.
What kind of marine life can be expected at the site?
As an artificial reef, the site supports various marine life, including numerous fish species utilizing the reefballs for shelter. Nearby seagrass beds act as essential nurseries, further contributing to the biodiversity observed around the reef structures. Growth on these structures is quite notable.
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