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Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support

Editor — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 10:32:00 +0000

As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.

ARK currently monitors six turtle “hot spots” throughout the Territory but emphasises the importance of extending efforts for effective sea turtle conservation management. Community involvement is vital, and volunteers are encouraged to participate in nightly beach patrols, assisting in the tagging and monitoring of nesting turtles. Such efforts contribute to a better understanding of the local turtle population and inform strategies to protect these ancient mariners.

Historically, the BVI has seen a decline in leatherback nesting. By the late 1990s, the nesting leatherback population had decreased to less than ten per season, a stark contrast to the 1920s when up to six turtles nested per night. However, by 2001, nesting activity had shown signs of increase. Continued monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to support this trend.

The BVI government has also taken steps to protect sea turtles. The harvesting of turtle eggs is strictly prohibited, and residents are reminded that such practices are unlawful and detrimental to turtle conservation. Efforts are underway to develop a sea turtle recovery action plan that safeguards turtles and their habitats for future generations.

For more information or to report turtle sightings, please contact the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) through their official website or social media channels.

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Reviving Coastal Reefs: A Collaborative Effort in the Virgin Islands

Editor — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 16:42:15 +0000

The Government of the Virgin Islands has partnered with the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) and Rethink Rebuild Regenerating (rrreefs) to breathe new life into the reefs surrounding the islands.

Rrreefs, an award-winning organisation based in Zurich, Switzerland, is renowned for its mission to revive 1% of coastal coral reefs by 2033. Employing cutting-edge 3D printing technology, they have developed underwater modular clay reef systems that serve as complex habitats conducive to coral recruitment and marine life proliferation.

Marine Biologist and Environmental Officer at the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Ms. Argel Horton, expressed optimism about the innovative approach, stating, “Once it starts thriving, it can be replicated and integrated into our existing reef system so the Territory’s coastal defense can protect us from intense hurricanes, storms, and flooding in our critical low-lying communities.”

The first 3D printed reef, measuring 20 cubic meters, was assembled off Cooper Island at Cistern Rock, a popular snorkeling and dive site. Mr. Christophe Gudin, head of Institute Le Rosey in Switzerland, which facilitated the project, emphasised the importance of marine conservation for future generations, stating, “The changes I have witnessed over the past 20 years underwater and the importance for the next generation of leaders to grasp this fundamental issue has matched remarkably well with this project.”

Over the next two years, ARK will monitor the reef’s impact on marine biodiversity, while Dr. Shannon Gore, Managing Director for ARK, highlighted the critical role of restoration in combating the ongoing threats to coral reefs globally.

“We look forward to seeing how this reef evolves over the coming years and how we can implement more of these types of reefs in the BVI,” said Ms. Marie Griesmar, Co-Founder of Rrreefs, reflecting on the project’s potential for long-term conservation efforts.

Rrreefs has successfully implemented similar projects worldwide, including San Andrés Island, Colombia, where coral recruitment was observed just eight months after installation, demonstrating the efficacy of their approach.

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