Indiana University's Underwater Science Program actively participates in the preservation of submerged cultural resources in Dominican Republic. Currently, Indiana University students are focusing on several underwater sites of cultural and biological significance. IU proposes establishment of an underwater shipwreck park to raise public awareness of the value of submerged cultural resources and to preserve these resources for the future. The sites listed below constitute the backbone of the proposed La Romana-Bayahibe Underwater Shipwreck Park.

Park Recommendations

A checklist of necessary steps to succesful establishment of La Romana-Bayahibe Underwater Shipwreck Park.

Caballo Blanco Reef

This site contains an eclectic mix of New World artifacts including nine 18th Century origin cannons and numerous 16th Century Spanish anchors, bombards, breeches, and versos.

St. George

A former Norwegian cargo ship, this modern wreck was deliberately sunk in 1999 in front of Club Viva Dominicus to create an artificial reef.

Anchor Reef

The closest archaeological and biological resource, Anchor Reef, lies less than 500 feet southwest from Club Viva Dominicus's shore. The anchor is approximately 10 feet long and overgrown with a variety of corals and sponges.

Mock Shipwreck

A replica shipwreck site could be created in the immediate vicinity of Club Dominicus to attract fish and other forms of marine life while educating the public about the history and archaeology of shipwrecks.

Photographic Imaging Technique (PIT)

A technique developed at IU, as applied to the sites within the proposed La Romana-Bayahibe Shipwreck Park.

Site Plans and Data Sheets

Site drawings and data related to IU 1996 survey of Caballo Blanco site

Photo Gallery

Collection of images from IU field research

Dominican Republic Research

Return to IU Underwater Science Dominican Republic Research Index

Underwater Science Program
URL: http://www.indiana.edu/~e370/dr/bayahibe.html
Last updated 9 November 2001
Questions or Comments: Underwater Science Program
Copyright 2001, The Trustees of Indiana University