Jim's gesture of giving starter corals free to those new to reefing, coupled with the spirited discussion on coral naming and the disproportionate impact on those new to the hobby got me thinking... How about an adaptation on the "Leave a Penny, Need a penny, Take a Penny" concept.
We all have items that grown very well (or for whatever reason) have become of lesser value/interest in our tanks that others (especially those new to reefing) might love to have. It would be relatively simple to have a tank at the swap where people brought "donations", and if interested - could in exchange take a piece that they might like. Rather like a "Coral Repository".
Everyone could participate in the leave/take concept with those new to reefing (probably have to define that) would be invited to take without leaving. If successful, a permanent tank could be established and maintained by a club or volunteers enabling access year round.
A simple in/out log could be maintained and a list of donors and recipients posted in CR, allowing those receiving to say thanks, recognize the donors and show their successes with there new addition(s). It would also recognize those that contribute (or list the donations as anonymous if so desired.)
The concept could also potentially apply to equipment (donate rather than the hassle of trying to sell.)
Obviously there would be many details to work out as we wouldn't want a tank solely comprised of dozens of pieces of Kenya tree (not that there's anything wrong with keeping Kenya Tree ) but It seems like a great way to welcome those to the hobby at little or no cost and gives all of us an opportunity to give back to the hobby we love so much without any money changing hands. Vendors would also hopefully participate with both livestock and/or equipment.
Thoughts, comments?