Local News
Agriculture and Fisheries Month to Focus on Innovation and Sustainability
Agriculture and Fisheries Month will be observed this year from March 8 to 29, with a series of activities designed to highlight the ingenuity and resilience of local sectors.
The month-long celebration will include exhibitions, markets, and a panel discussion focused on food security, sustainability, and technological advancements in agriculture and fisheries.
The events aim to provide a platform for local farmers, fishermen, and experts to share their knowledge, showcase their products, and discuss strategies for building a more sustainable future.
Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr. Karl Dawson, stressed the importance of the month in recognising the work of local farmers, fishers, and communities. He noted that the Territory faces challenges due to limited land and a vast ocean, and stressed the need for innovative, sustainable practices.
“As we face the challenges of limited land and vast ocean, we must continue to embrace innovative, sustainable practices,” Dr. Dawson said. “Despite the limited land space, we are working to make more land available for farming, given the vital role agriculture plays in our economy.”
Dr. Dawson also mentioned that the Department of Agriculture will support training initiatives focused on food production methods that are productive but require minimal land use.
Theodore James, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, explained that this year’s theme, “Limited Land, Vast Ocean: Reimagining Food Production Through Ingenuity,” invites the community to explore new and sustainable approaches to food production.
“This theme highlights how the Territory adapts to the challenges of limited land and an expansive ocean,” Mr. James said. “By reimagining food production and embracing new approaches, we can create sustainable systems that preserve our natural resources, ensuring long-term food security and economic growth for the Virgin Islands.”
The month’s activities will kick off with an exhibition and market in Tortola at Paraquita Bay on March 8 and 9, aimed at engaging the public in discussions about sustainable food practices. Other events include the AgriFish Dialogue and a panel discussion addressing innovative solutions and emerging trends in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
Exhibitions will also take place on Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke, providing local farmers, fishers, and other stakeholders an opportunity to connect with consumers, showcase their work, and demonstrate how ingenuity is shaping the future of food production in the Virgin Islands.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries remains committed to promoting sustainable practices throughout the Territory, fostering a brighter future for both agriculture and fisheries.
The British Virgin Islands is participating in the Subzonal 2.3.3 Absolute and Women’s Chess Championships, taking place from April 11 to 18 at the Cascadia Hotel and Conference Center in St. Ann’s, Trinidad and Tobago.
The tournament, sanctioned by the World Chess Federation (FIDE), brings together players from across the Caribbean and parts of Central America, including representatives from Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Curaçao, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, and others.
Representing the BVI in the Absolute Section are Simon Potter and Jordan Hinds. In the Women’s Section, Alexis Ganigan and Tiandra Scatliffe are competing. The event is organized by the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Association in conjunction with the Confederation of Chess for the Americas (CCA).
The Subzonal tournament serves as a qualifier for future zonal and continental events under the FIDE calendar. According to the TTCA, this year’s competition includes nine rounds under classical time control and follows international pairing standards.
Updates and full standings are available via the official tournament website at chesstt.org.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has announced plans to increase enforcement of noise pollution regulations in 2025, with a particular focus on motor scooters and heavy-duty lorries that have drawn repeated complaints from the public.
Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Dariel Robinson, who heads Operations, confirmed that the RVIPF will be prioritising enforcement of the Noise Control and Abatement Act (1996) this year. The move comes in response to growing concerns from residents about the impact of excessively loud vehicles on quality of life throughout the Territory.
“We continue to receive regular reports from members of the community regarding noise disturbances caused by motorbikes and large lorries,” Robinson said. “These disturbances, especially during late-night and early-morning hours, are affecting the peace and well-being of our residents, particularly the elderly.”
Under the Act, individuals found in breach may face arrest, charges, and court proceedings. The RVIPF is encouraging all vehicle owners—particularly those operating scooters and commercial lorries—to ensure their vehicles are in compliance with the legal noise limits.
“This is a matter of public interest,” Robinson added. “We are asking the public to revisit the details of the Act and to share this information with others who may be affected. Enforcement will begin in earnest in 2025, and we intend to take firm action where necessary.”
The RVIPF reiterated its commitment to ensuring safer, quieter communities across the Virgin Islands and is appealing to the public to support efforts aimed at reducing noise pollution and fostering a more respectful living environment.
Premier Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley was on hand Sunday to present the Guy Eldridge Spirit of Enthusiasm Award to Jim Vos, skipper of Warthog, in recognition of his dedication to youth sailing in the Virgin Islands.
The award was one of the highlights of the final day of the 52nd BVI Spring Regatta, which wrapped up a week of racing on the waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
While the early part of the week saw strong winds and challenging conditions, sailors were treated to classic Caribbean weather for the finale—sunny skies, steady breeze, and warm temperatures.
Despite the tough start, most crews found their rhythm and stayed consistent through the final races. The mix of international and local talent made for a strong showing across the board.
The regatta closed out with a lively celebration at the Regatta Village—sailors, supporters, and organizers coming together to toast another successful year on the water.
Full list of class winners:
-
Warthog – Jim Vos (ANT)
-
El Ocaso – Tony Mack (GBR)
-
Huey Too – Bernie Evan-Wong (ANT)
-
Bravissimo – Mike Feierabend (USVI)
-
Painkiller/Sea-Battical – Alice Martin (USA)
-
Jitterbug – Dr. Robin Tattersall (BVI)
-
La Novia – Georges Coutu (DOM)
-
Layla – Andrew Anne (GBR)
-
Ting A Ling – Graham Harney (BVI)
-
Cricket – Sandy Mair (BVI)
-
Flying Jenny – Sandy Askew (USA)
ADVERTISEMENT:
BVI Competes at Subzonal 2.3.3 Chess Championships in Trinidad and Tobago
Police to Enforce Noise Act Amid Complaints About Loud Scooters, Trucks
Premier Rejects UK Report, Defends Self-Governance
-
Uncategorized6 days agoJamaican National Ronnie Identified as Carrot Bay Drowning Victim
-
Uncategorized7 days agoAssaults and Wounding Charges for Huntums Ghut and Virgin Gorda Residents
-
Uncategorized7 days agoTwo Men Charged in Separate Burglary Investigations
-
Crime/Police2 weeks agoPrison Superintendent Addresses Attack on Officer at Balsam Ghut
-
Local News6 days agoMan Drowns After Being Swept Off Rocks by Wave in the Carrot Bay
-
Entertainment1 week agoVirgin Islands Artist Ouida Releases Feel-Good Reggae Anthem ‘Everyday’
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoTrump’s New Tariffs Threaten Caribbean Economies With Higher Costs and Trade Uncertainty
-
Uncategorized7 days agoMinors Face Firearms Charges in Great Mountain