@xkotletx This is probably the better thread to use, since it covers the fact that a number of objects can't be collected:
Since you have Ambitions, you can try using the harvester. I don't know whether it actually works for spirits, but it does for insects. If you don't have an inventor sim, you can find the harvester in buydebug or perhaps at the consignment store.
Yesterday I was playing in oasis landing and my sim was able to swim in the water there, just putting this here to let you guys know. Im not sure why it's not an issue in this world.
@chasewknight I noticed the same thing a while back. It's possible the water is considered an enclosed body, not open water as in other worlds, but I haven't really poked at it.
