lake diving permits

[scubadog76]

I made some phone calls,..... The first one went like this:

Minneapolis parkboard: how may I help you? 
(SD76)  I wanted to get some info on diving in Minneapolis Lakes.
(mPB)  It's not allowed.
(SD76)  Since when?  There is even a form on your website
(MPB)  Hold on, I'll transfer you.........

Kenny G music playing..........

Minneapolis Aquatics center:  Hello-
(SD76)  I was trying to find out about scuba permits and the requirements within-
(MAC)  "you need a permit so we know which lake you are in"
(SD76)  Since when?  Just a few years ago, they did away with the whole permit thing.
(MAC) I think last year

I put a call into a couple of park supervisors that I dealt with a few years ago, and both were out or dodging calls.  I will let everyone know what happens so we can try to squash this crap once and for all.  The Park Board also has bi-weekly meetings that may be beneficial to have one large showing of divers to give positive input on the helpfulness of the dive community and their care of the lakes.  I hit these lakes about 3 times a week.  It would be a shame to lose them to uninformed powers. 

Fyi:  Cedar is bad vis, Isles is worse.  Calhoun will give you 10 to 15 feet in places, even in August.  It's nice not worrying about boats too.

More info to come>