Local News
Virgin Islands Launches National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
The Virgin Islands National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was officially launched on February 11 at Maria’s by the Sea in Road Town, Tortola. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, marks a significant step in preserving the territory’s ecosystems amid increasing environmental threats.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, stressed the urgency of the project, stating, “Our environment is our identity, our lifeline, our greatest asset, and it is our duty to protect it for generations to come.” He outlined the challenges facing the Virgin Islands, including climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution, highlighting the impact of sand mining on Anegada, which is leading to coastal erosion and habitat loss.
The Virgin Islands Rock Iguana, an endangered species found nowhere else on Earth, was identified as one of the critical species under threat. “If we continue on this path, we will lose more than just our natural beauty. We will lose the resources that sustain our people,” Dr. Smith-Berkeley warned.
The NBSAP aims to integrate biodiversity conservation into national planning, ensuring sustainable development while protecting the territory’s natural resources. The strategy aligns with the United Kingdom’s Biodiversity Strategy, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Smith-Berkeley acknowledged the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) for its role in regional environmental sustainability efforts. He also expressed gratitude to PC Consultants Ltd. of Guyana, Dr. Shannon Gore of Coastal Management Systems, and the European Union’s BioSPACE Project for their contributions to the initiative.
Calling on the community to play an active role, Dr. Smith-Berkeley stated, “Conservation is not the responsibility of a single ministry or a handful of experts. It is a collective effort. It is a call to action for every one of us to protect what we have before it is too late.”
The NBSAP is expected to guide policies and actions that will ensure the Virgin Islands’ environment remains resilient and productive for future generations.
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:
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Warthog – Jim Vos (ANT)
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El Ocaso – Tony Mack (GBR)
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Huey Too – Bernie Evan-Wong (ANT)
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Bravissimo – Mike Feierabend (USVI)
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Painkiller/Sea-Battical – Alice Martin (USA)
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Jitterbug – Dr. Robin Tattersall (BVI)
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La Novia – Georges Coutu (DOM)
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Layla – Andrew Anne (GBR)
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Ting A Ling – Graham Harney (BVI)
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Cricket – Sandy Mair (BVI)
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Flying Jenny – Sandy Askew (USA)
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