The 3rd Annual I.CARE Trash Derby has come to a successful close, delivering a powerful message of community-driven conservation. In partnership with SSI Blue Oceans, Mares, and several other industry leaders, I.CARE once again led an inspiring grassroots effort to restore and protect the marine environment of the Florida Keys.

This year’s Trash Derby broke records, drawing support from more than 900 participants—including divers, boaters, and conservation advocates—who collectively removed an impressive 36,459 pounds of marine debris. Over a two-day period, teams worked on land, along shorelines, and at reef sites both above and below the water, making a meaningful contribution to the region’s ecological health.

“I am so proud of everyone involved in last week’s I.CARE Trash Derby,” said Mike Goldberg, Co-Founder of I.CARE. “This level of success comes from the passion and hard work of hundreds of people who care about our oceans, reefs, and local communities. I’m filled with gratitude.”

Recognizing Top Contributors: From Trash to Triumph

The event featured competition across three categories—Land & Shore, Private Boat, and Dive Operator—awarding teams based on the amount of debris collected per person. Additional special recognitions included the most monofilament retrieved and the most unusual item found. Congratulations to the standout teams of 2025:

Land & Shore Division:

• Tired of Tires – 1,128.75 lbs/person

• DerSno – 930.7 lbs/person

• KnotaYacht – 124.2 lbs/person

Private Boat Division:

• Triple Crown – 1,076.83 lbs/person

• Fisherman & the Mermaid – 735.95 lbs/person

• Dumpster Diving Divas – 572.875 lbs/person

Dive Operator Division:

• Quiescence Diving – 430.6 lbs/person (average)

• Key Dives – 141.3 lbs/person (average)

• Captain’s Corner – 83.2 lbs/person (average)

Special Awards:

• Most Monofilament Collected: Conch Republic Divers (26.8 lbs)

• Most Unique Item Found: Bilge Buddies

Celebrating Conservation with Community and Education

The weekend concluded with the Trash Derby Festival at Founders Park in Islamorada. Attendees enjoyed live music, food, and sustainability-focused vendors, all centered around marine conservation. The festival also provided opportunities to connect with environmental organizations and celebrate the participants’ achievements.

“The energy and dedication from everyone involved was incredible,” said Rachael Steidley, SSI’s North America Marketing Manager. “This event goes beyond collecting trash—it’s about building a movement and inspiring conservation on a global scale.”

Looking Ahead to 2026: Raising the Bar

Plans are already underway for the 4th Annual I.CARE Trash Derby, with organizers calling on dive pros, boaters, and ocean advocates to help set an even bigger record next year.

To get involved or learn more about how you or your dive shop can participate in 2026, visit www.icaretrashderby.com or contact I.CARE at info@icareaboutcoral.org.

Let’s keep making waves for the planet—one pound at a time.

Dive industry veteran Paul Toomer has officially announced his departure from Dive RAID International, marking the end of a significant chapter in his professional journey.

In a statement released today, Toomer shared:

“It is with sadness that I must advise that I am no longer involved with Dive RAID International (RAID HQ).This decision was not made lightly and reflects a mutual understanding between RAID and myself. I have greatly valued contributing to RAID’s growth and accomplishments over the years. However, we now hold differing visions for the future, and it is time for me to take a new path.

As of now, I am no longer in a position to respond to inquiries from RAID members, regional offices, or representatives. Please direct any questions to your local RAID office or to Dive RAID International directly. Contact information is available on the official website.

Even though I am no longer involved with RAID HQ, I have not lost my passion for working in this amazing industry and I will continue to teach and dive. My rebreathers will probably see more action now than they ever have.Of course I wish the RAID guys all the best going forward.”

Toomer has been an influential figure in the global diving community for decades, and his leadership played a major role in shaping RAID’s reputation as a forward-thinking training agency. While his next steps have not yet been publicly disclosed, his continued commitment to diving suggests exciting things ahead.