For 64 years, the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands (NPTVI) has been a steadfast guardian of the Territory’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Established in 1961, NPTVI is the third-oldest trust of its kind in the Caribbean. This year, the Trust proudly celebrates its anniversary under the theme: Our Parks, Our People, Our Legacy.

Leading the Board of Directors in this work is Mr. Clyde Lettsome, Chairman of the Board. “Our work is broad and essential,” he noted. “We are responsible for the management of natural, cultural, and historical sites—many of which are integral to the Territory’s tourism product. Additionally, we maintain approximately 155 conservation moorings at popular snorkel and dive locations, including the iconic RMS Rhone Marine Park, the only designated marine park in the Virgin Islands.”

Ongoing infrastructure and signage upgrades are currently underway at several flagship sites including Sage Mountain, The Baths, Devil’s Bay, Spring Bay, and the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the ecological and historical integrity of each park.

Beyond stewardship, NPTVI has taken a leadership role in scientific research. With over 25 years of continuous environmental study, the organization collaborates with both local and international partners. Dr. Cassander Titley-O’Neal, Director of the Trust, shared updates from their June field season, highlighting three active Darwin Plus (DPLUS) projects.

“One project is working to restore entire island ecosystems to their natural state by removing invasive species,” Dr. Titley-O’Neal explained. “Another involves collecting DNA and herbarium specimens of every native and endemic plant species in the BVI. This will help establish the first Biobank and a comprehensive BVI Plant ‘Tree of Life’. The third project is examining soil seed banks at Great and Little Tobago National Parks to understand the potential for natural regeneration.”

As part of its anniversary celebrations, the Trust invites the public to two storytelling evenings in July, celebrating the Territory’s rich natural and cultural narratives:

• July 18 at Mount Healthy Oasis: Dr. Angel Smith brings the history of Mount Healthy to life.
• July 25 at J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens: Dr. Mitch Kent explores the underwater world of the RMS Rhone. Guests will also have a rare opportunity to view repatriated artifacts from the wreck, recently recovered by Dr. Titley-O’Neal from a private collection in Florida.
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Since the declaration of Sage Mountain as the first national park in 1964, NPTVI has expanded to manage 21 national parks, safeguarding forests, beaches, marine reserves, and historic sites across the Territory.

Reflecting on the milestone, Dr. Titley-O’Neal emphasized the importance of community involvement. “This isn’t just about conservation—it’s about empowering our people to appreciate what we’ve inherited and protect it for the future. Our parks are more than places—they are part of our legacy.”

The public is encouraged to get involved—whether through volunteering, participating in events, exploring the parks, or contributing to conservation efforts.

How You Can Participate:

• Visit NPTVI’s website and Facebook page for upcoming event updates.

• Support by purchasing park entry passes or making a donation online.
• Volunteer for ongoing initiatives such as the Christmas Bird Count.

As NPTVI reflects on more than six decades of progress, renewed energy from its leadership team affirms that “Our Parks, Our People, Our Legacy” is more than a theme—it is a living pledge to the future of the Virgin Islands.