Diving atKyle Wahl Memorial Reef B (United States)
Divers arriving at Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B often first notice the vibrant marine activity surrounding its recently deployed structures. This artificial reef, dedicated to a young life, swiftly attracts schools of baitfish and a diverse array of larger reef inhabitants, creating an immediate sense of thriving underwater life against the backdrop of its purposeful design. It feels like a living monument, active and full of potential.
Evening condition tracking at Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B features an air temperature of 23.8°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.52m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
27.5318, -80.1766
Dive Site Overview
Deployment of 1,500 tons of secondary concrete and 25 locally-produced limestone modules forms the core of Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B, creating robust new habitats. Its establishment emerged from dedicated community efforts and the St.
Lucie County Artificial Reef Program, serving as both a tribute and an ecological boost.
The Kyle Wahl Memorial Module found its placement as part of a broader initiative to enhance recreational diving and fishing opportunities within the Lee E. Harris Memorial Site. These chosen materials were carefully positioned to build up a substantial reef structure.
Project organizers commemorate Kyle Wahl, who passed from cancer at age five, and also honor Shirley Starbird Dubois, a dedicated teacher and cancer survivor. Memorial reefs like this serve a dual purpose: they commemorate individuals while actively enriching the marine environment they cherished.
Strategic placement of the site intends to disperse pressure on existing reef areas, simultaneously developing new, productive ecosystems for future generations of divers and anglers.
Best Time to Dive
Optimizing a dive to Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B often depends on prevalent weather patterns and water conditions. The months of July, May, and June frequently present more favorable conditions, with July rated 'Excellent' for diving and May and June rated 'Good.' Air temperatures during these prime months range from approximately 25.3°C (77.5°F) in May to 27.8°C (82°F) in July. Average wave heights are notably lower in May (0.62 m), June (0.55 m), and July (0.43 m), which generally translates to smoother boat rides and more comfortable entry/exit conditions. Wind speeds also tend to be lighter, particularly in July, averaging around 23 km/h (14 mph). While specific water temperature data for this site isn't consistently reported, the warmer air temperatures typically correlate with more temperate waters during these peak seasons. Rainfall is generally moderate year-round, but October sees a slight increase, alongside higher average wave heights and wind speeds, which might result in a 'Moderate' dive score.
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
Divers approaching Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B will find themselves descending into depths ranging from 17 to 18 meters (55 to 60 ft), making it readily accessible for certified open water divers. Entry typically involves drifting down to the artificial structures, which comprise significant concrete elements and specially designed limestone modules. These structures provide immediate shelter and foraging grounds for marine life, evidenced by swift colonization from baitfish. Water clarity varies with currents and recent weather events, yet the structures offer distinct features to explore. Navigation around the reef modules is straightforward, allowing easy observation of the developing ecosystem. Expect a moderate current, varying with local tidal influences. Visibility around the structures is generally good, enhancing the exploration of this relatively new habitat.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving at Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B requires adherence to standard recreational diving safety protocols. Given the maximum depth of around 18 m (60 ft), it's well within the limits for Open Water certified divers, though experience with artificial reef environments is always beneficial. Divers should maintain situational awareness, particularly regarding boat traffic on the surface, as this is a popular fishing and diving area. Always plan your dive, dive your plan, and monitor your air consumption and no-decompression limits. It's recommended to dive with a buddy and to carry a surface marker buoy for ascent and surface visibility. While no specific inherent hazards for this site are consistently reported, divers should be mindful of potential entanglement with fishing lines that may be present due to fishing activity. Respect the memorial nature of the reef by avoiding any disturbance to the structures.
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
3mm wetsuit is often considered an appropriate level of exposure protection for conditions like these. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Current readings at Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B show water temperatures near 25°C (77°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (75°F).
The forecast outlook suggests that temperatures will stay close to current levels.
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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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B
A vibrant habitat, Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B quickly attracted a remarkable diversity of marine species shortly after deployment. Observers have documented at least eighteen species from the snapper-grouper complex, including black grouper, black seabass, gray snapper, and various other snapper species like mutton, cubera, and yellowtail. This reef also hosts juvenile and adult amberjack, gag, goliath grouper, lane snapper, and snook, indicating its importance as a nursery and feeding ground. Large schools of baitfish, such as goggle eyes, blue runners, and cigar minnows, are a consistent feature, often seen swarming the modules within days of their placement. These baitfish form a critical part of the local food web, attracting the larger predatory species that make this reef engaging for divers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B?
It's an artificial reef site established as a memorial within the larger Lee E. Harris Memorial Site. It serves both as a tribute to Kyle Wahl and as an enhancement to the local marine ecosystem in St. Lucie County.
What is the typical depth range for diving at this site?
Divers exploring the Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B can expect to descend to depths between 17 and 18 meters (55 to 60 ft). This depth makes it accessible for recreational divers with open water certification.
What kind of structures make up the reef?
The reef is constructed from both a 1,500-ton secondary concrete reef and 25 locally-produced limestone special artificial reef modules. These materials were carefully chosen to create varied habitats for marine life.
What marine life can divers expect to see?
The reef supports diverse marine life, including 18 species of snapper-grouper like black grouper, gray snapper, and cubera snapper. You'll also encounter juvenile and adult amberjack, goliath grouper, and large schools of baitfish such as goggle eyes and blue runners.
When is the best time of year to dive Kyle Wahl Memorial Reef B?
The months of July, May, and June generally offer the best diving conditions. These periods typically feature lower wave heights, lighter winds, and comfortable air temperatures, contributing to a more enjoyable dive experience.
Is this reef suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, with depths of 17-18 meters (55-60 ft), the site is suitable for Open Water certified divers. However, all divers should be comfortable with open water conditions and follow safe diving practices.
What is the significance of the memorial reefs?
These reefs serve as a lasting tribute to individuals like Kyle Wahl and Shirley Starbird Dubois. They honor their memory by contributing to marine conservation and providing new recreational opportunities for divers and fishers.
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