The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change has launched efforts to address a reported increase in illegal sand mining at several beaches across the Territory, including Long Bay on Beef Island and Capoon’s Bay on Tortola.
According to officials, unregulated sand removal at Long Bay has begun to compromise the beach’s western walkway, disrupt ongoing restoration work, and threaten the long-term environmental stability of the site.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Honourable Julian Fraser, said the government is responding to multiple reports of illicit extraction activities and underscored the critical need to preserve the Territory’s coastal ecosystems.
“Our beaches are vital to our environmental health and national economy,” Fraser stated. “We must act to protect them for present and future generations.”
Under the Beach Protection Ordinance, 1985 (CAP 233), sand mining is prohibited and considered a criminal offence. The law forbids the removal of sand, stone, gravel, or shingle from any beach or foreshore area, as well as from private property where such activity is likely to result in coastal erosion. Penalties include fines of up to $500, imprisonment of up to six months, or both. Equipment used in connection with an offence is also subject to forfeiture.
The Ministry has requested support from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force to investigate and prosecute offenders. Officials also plan to enhance beach monitoring and enforcement activities.
To deter further incidents, the Ministry has sought permission to temporarily close the access route through the Little Mountain Estate to Long Bay beach. Special arrangements are being made to allow early morning access for elderly individuals and other regular users of the path.
Dr. Ronald Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, joined the appeal, urging residents to refrain from engaging in or supporting illegal extraction.
Educational signage will be installed at Long Bay as part of a pilot beach management plan, outlining prohibited activities and the ecological risks associated with sand removal.
The Ministry said the ongoing measures reflect a broader commitment to sustainable environmental practices through strengthened legal and policy frameworks.
