Welcome to the site of the British Virgin Islands Conservation Group
A collection of articles, on the history, development, and concerns affecting the BVI. EXCEPT where specifically stated as a BVIHCG position, all articles and letters on the site are NOT necessarily the position of BVIHCG
Dedicated to providing information on the history of our beloved British Virgin Islands and encouraging responsible development
As you have heard, VIEC (Virgin Islands Environmental Council) of which BVIHCG is a part of, has brought a case against the government re the development of Beef Island. VIEC are coming up against some unfortunate obstacles which can be easily overcome with some funding. The Government are defending and the Developers have Ferarra Kerins acting for them - the developers have pitched their case so that if the Government loses they can then take action against the government. The developers are presently aggressively trying to get the case kicked out without a trial. However, we are reaching the end of our abilities to singlehandly continue with it comfortably as the amount of paperwork and complexity is becoming too much for one person to handle (developers just filed 3 boxes full of technical reports...!). I have managed to find some top London QCs who are in the top rankings for environmental law who can assist me with the case, but only if VIEC can cover their expenses and discounted fees. The cheapest quote I've received so far is GBP11,000 for the final trial plus travel and accommodation (usual price for a 1 day trial would be GBP30,000). This is a ground breaking environmental case here in the BVI, which potentially COULD fold without getting to trial without financial support. We need your help,
Update from the BVI Beacon Nov 30th on the VIEC motion against the Attorney General on the development on Beef Island
Golf course stalled by lawsuit
The first environmental lawsuit in the territory will resume in court next year, delaying plans for the groundbreaking of an $80 million resort and gold course on Beef Island.
In September, the High Court granted the Virgin Islands Environmental Council, a coalition of conservationalists and residents, approval to challenge the Beef Island Development through a judicial review clame against the former Chief Minister's approval of the 5 star hotel, mega yacht marina and golf course.
The next hearing is scheduled for Jan 15 according to documents lodged at the Court Registry, Quorum Island BVI Ltd. the develpment company that joined the proceedings as an interested party in September, was given until yesterday to defend itself from the judicial review claim.
"Obviously it's going to delay our groundbreasking" said Hector Vina, managing director of Interisle Holdings Ltd. Quorum's partner and the project developer for Beef Island. "We were expecting to break ground byJanuary or February but with the possibility of a March trial it could be delayed to the second quarter."
Justice Rite Olivette opened a "trial window" or set aside possible court dates from March 3-5, according to the document obtained by the BEACON.
"That doesn't necessarily mean there will be a trial" Mr Vinas said, adding that Justice Olivetti will decide if there are enough grounds for a trial after the January hearing.
The latest claim order- dated Nov 7 but filed two weeks after at the Court Registry- granted the Attorney Generals office to "file and serve affidavits" of Chief Planner Louis Potter and Cyndi Rolli, a former physical planner for the Town and Country Planning Department who had been responsible for co-ordinating the review of the project among government agencies.
The Lawsuit
The claim for judicial review is based in part on a Fisheries Regulation that states "no person shall carry out any development activity, whether terrestrial or otherwise, which may be likely to adversely impact on a marine protected area." Hans Creek is a fisheries protected area under the law and the VIEC claims that the proposed development at Beef Island "would have irreversible environmental adverse effects on the protected fisheries habitat." The claim, if successful, they said in a statement" would have the effect of rendering the planning approval void for illegality."
"We understand the challenge. We don't think they're correct in the challenge but that's how the system works," Mr. Vina said. "Obviously it's frustrating. We've been moving toward construction but we've had to devote a hell of a lot of time, effort, resources and finances in responding to the challenge."
Richard Courtney De Castro, co-director of the VIEC, declined comment for this article, and Dr. Quincy Lettsome another co-director of the group, could not be reached for comment.
THe Development
Former Chief Minister Dr. Orlando Smith signed and initial agreement with investor Raymond Hung of Quorum Island for the development of the resort in 2005.
Dr. Smith appeared as one of the respondents of the judicial review filed against the government. However, his name has been removed from the lawsuit and "The attorney General will be substituted as the sole respondent." according to the last court order.
In August 2006, Mr Hung sold 50 % of the shares in the Beef Island Development to Interisle Holdings LTD., a consortium made up of the Interlink Group of Puerto Rico and the Fort Lauderdale based Island Global Yachting, a worldwide luxury marina developer.
Groundbreaking?
Mr. Vina of Interisle could not give a date for construction.
"Right now it is very uncertain to say a date" he said, adding that the Beef Island project has the backing of the new government.
"They want development to happen in the islands and they want us to remain in the territory and go ahead with the development," he said, adding that he is waiting for word from government to make a "full fledged presentation."
Byt Mr. Vina- who confirmed that his group has met with Premiere Ralph O'neil and other government officials- was unaware of the details of an upcoming meeting.
According to the developer, the government requested a "full blown presentation" by Nov 30.
Thats this week," he said. "But we don't know for sure who the audience of date is going to be."
Sandra Ward, director of communications for the premiere, said the meeting would have to be held at another date because the "premiere is going off island from Nov 27 to Dec 6 on unofficial overseas travel."
On Monday during an address to the territory, Mr. O'Neil spoke about the project.
"You know what has happened to the Beef Island development proposal," he said.
That matter is before the courts and therefore we cannot discuss that."
Link to an article in All At Sea on the Moorings Expansion
Little Bay Lambert Bay, Tortola
Link to an article in the BVI Standpoint Nov 17th, on Little Bay
Approx 90 people attended a Public Meeting Nov 8 on the proposed gated community at the above. The plan by CDS development wants to build Lambert Sandcatle Estate which will have 13 single family units, a gatehouse and rec facilities on 9.3 acres.
This will be next door to the proposed large development of Raffles at Lambert Resort. Raffles wants to build 250 units with a hotel and spa.
Town and Country had asked for speakers to register in advance and the main concerns were the fact that it is nesting grounds for Leatherback turtles, the problems with erosion control and silt curtains and the density of the development. Between the two developments, the increase in lights will have a negative impact on the turtles who are sensitive to light in finding their way to their nests.
The development has already started buiding a spec house, which they were given permission for from Town and Country. They have not been given permission to build the rest yet, but they are busy clearing and leveling land.
Jaime Cruz, Project Engineer and main speaker for the developers described the planned boardwalk that will allow public access as an amenity to the project. “It (the boardwalk) is something that can be enjoyed by the residents and the community and the public visiting our beach.”
Jane Bakewell, one of the registered speakers against the density of the project informed Mr. Cruz, “There is no our beach in the BVI, all the beaches belongs to BVIslanders.” Her family sold the property to the developers with the assurance that the homes constructed would be in harmony with the environment. Bakewell brought her late father’s favorite hat to the meeting to ensure his voice would be heard and began her speech with a chronological time line of Little Bay.
“If the developers had come at this with the thought of what we were originally told when my family sold the land that it was going to be five to six residential house that could be arranged with the appropriate environmental protection,” Ms. Bakewell told the audience. She feels the proposed development is hugely out of scale, unnecessary and burdensome for that little valley.
“Don’t be fooled the reason this project have gotten so little attention is the fact that development is taking place in a small bay most people don’t visit regularly out of the public eye.” Ms. Bakewell added.
Mr. Cruz said the home owners association will set the rules for the public accessing the beach and the BVI Government Town and Country Chief Planner Louis Potter made it clear that the public will have access to the beach.
There seems to be a lot of people locally who have taken exception to the statement Mr Cruz made about the public visiting "our beach" as it is NOT their beach, but a public beach. There also seems to be a lot of questions on WHY a home owners association would be setting the rules for the public visiting the beach. The Leatherback turtles are on the brink of extinction already and it is felt that this will put another nail in the coffin of their extinction locally.
The 4300 to 7500 square feet homes will take years to complete and are expected to cost around 5 to 6 million dollars.
Standpoint Oct 12th 2007. The legal challenge against the development of Beef Island is getting ready to begin. This project is going to take MONEY to make an effective case. We have had several people ask how they can help with donations. We are therefore in the process of setting up a system to accept donations.
Environmentalists are granted judicial review of Beef Island Project
Island Sun, Saturday Sept 15thConcerned BV Islanders are staying true to the promise they made to ensure that Hans Creek is preserved, and are now taking further action to prevent the proposed 5 star development from being constructed.
Now the Virgin Islands Environmental Council (VIEC) which includes the BVI Fisherpersons Association and the Heritage Group after circulating petitions, staging rallies, and making presentations to His Excellency Governor David Pearey, then Chief Minister (Dr. the hon D Orlando Smith), and Leader of the Opposition, Honorable Ralph T. O'Neal have now taken their issue to the high court.
VIEC Directors, Dr. Quincy Lettsome and Mr. Courtney de Castro both informed the Island Sun newspaper that the Court claim was actually filed by VIEC prior to the general elections. According to the Directors the Court granted approval to the Council to challenge the Beef Island Development Project allowing them to bring a claim for judicial review of the former Chief Minister's 31st January decision granting planning approval for the 5 star hotel, mega-yacht marina, and golf course development on Beef Island.
Although much information pertaining to the claim was not divulged, it was disclosed that "the claim for judicial review is based, amongst other issues, on section 51 (1) of the 2003 Fisheries Regulations which provide that "no person shall carry out any development activity, whether terrestrial or otherwise, which may or is likely to adversely impact on a marine protected area."
The Directors further added that "contravention of this section is a criminal offense and so is aiding, abetting and procuring the same. The Hans Creek Fishing Protected Area is protected by this law and scientific evidence shows that the development of the proposed golf course and marina at Beef Island will have irreversible adverse environmental impacts on the protected fisheries habitat. This in addition to other relevant issues, would have the effect of rendering the planning approval void for illegality. The Planning Act does not override other legislations in the BVI, but provides instead that no development is exempt from meeting the requirements imposed by other laws.
Dr. Lettsome stressed that the VIEC is not against development, in fact he announced that they do welcome developments. However, he said that environmental considerations must be taken into account and the laws pertaining to the environment must be respected and adhered to in order to endure that the environment is left in good standing for future generations.
"What we have done we have challenged the development because it contravenes certain laws pertaining to environment and the area is one of the most unique ecosystems in the Caribbean with fishes, whelks, conch and marine life. It should be preserved as a scientific and recreational area, and therefore as a society we have challenged this development legally"
According to Mr. De Castro the VIEC feels that sustainable development is what the BVI should be aiming for. He disclosed that VIEC is also concerned about the Smugglers Cove development plans.
First House of Assemble embarks on its historic journey
Guest editorial by Oscar Ramjeet
The new Virgin Islands Party government (VIP) spent the past three weeks assessing what they have inherited from the NDP Government with a view of moving on and to develop the BVI for the benefit of the entire community be it born Virgin Islanders, naturalized BV Islanders, Belongers or residents.
The new VIP administration does not have much baggage from their predecessors. They have inherited a sound economy somewhat similar to what they left when the NDP too over the government 4 years ago.
However, no doubt the experienced Premier Ralph O'Neal and his cabinet have learnt a lesson from the NDP that they must not tell the people what they cannot do. They must not make promises that they cannot fulfill and moreover they must be humble and assure the electorates that they have learnt from past mistakes.
One my be trying to figure out why the electorates have decided to change the government and why they showed their disapproval with such force that the incumbent only gained two of the 13 seats with one by a very narrow margin when Dr. Orlando Smith barely scraped in.
Political pundits in the territory seem to feel that the NDP failed to consult with the electorates about new development projects and moreover they went ahead with major projects despite opposition from the VIP and a large sector of the public.
The electorates were also displeased with the inordinate delay in tackling the Hospital Project. In fact they were surprised that Dr. Smith who has the health of the territory at heart, in their view, failed to accelerate the project in order to bring much better medical facilities rather than the cramped Peebles Hospital.
It is also felt that the NDP was leaning too much for the expatriates and the so called "small man" was being ignored.
Some are also of the view that the last administration did not properly handle the telecommunications liberation policy which made provision for two other companies besides CCT Boatphone and Cable and Wireless to be included as operators.
The liberalization policy did not make allocation for more than three companies and as a result Digicel which operates in 22 caribbean countries between Guyana and Haitia has submitted a proposal to the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission.
Digicel has since moved to the courts.
There was and still is a perception that a slightly larger number of truly qualified licensees would result in greater competition and perhaps lower prices for the consumer.
Of course there is gossip, but no concrete evidence about nepotism and clientelism.
However the burning problem is the upsurge of crime and the failure to bring it to a halt or to minimize it, and the unsolved murders have also added to the reasons why the electorates decided for a change.
It is sincerely hoped that the new VIP government will do a better job and not let down their constituents. Besides the Premier there are a few old faces like Julian Fraser, Andrew Fahie, who both serve as Ministers, the experienced Omar Hodge, not to exclude independent candidate Alvin Christopher who supports the VIP, and of course Dancia Penn-Sallah, QC will be a huge asset with her legal and administrative experience as well as Vernon Mallone, former Commissioner of Police and former speaker of the house Keith Flax.
As the newly inaugurated First House of Assembly embarks on its 4 year mandate we pray God that its journey be blessed with true leadership, genuine compassion, inspired wisdom, all embracing vision, fervent brotherhood and sincere humility.
Marine Stakeholders meet to discuss environmental protection
Andrew Wilkins, the Standpoint, Tuesday Sept 18th, 2007
Because so many residents of the Virgin Islands need a healthy marine ecosystem to make their livings, representatives from Conservation and Fisheries Department held a meeting to discuss environmental concerns and to introduce a book encouraging boaters to be aware of what is required.
Planned to be ready for boating season in December, C&F is developing a book that includes all the laws, regulations and best management practices when it comes to marine conservation. The book is directed to tourists who do not have an understanding of how fragility of the territory's marine ecosystem.
"We can teach everybody here, but for someone who has never been here, they might not know what reefs are and know that they shouldn't be anchoring on it" said Shannon Gore a maine biologist with C&F.
The Moorings is funding the first publication of the book, Gore said, as a condition of approval for their expansion. Most of the information is already available, she said, it is just a matter of putting it all together. At this time, there is no cost estimate of the book, Gore said.
The meeting held Thursday September 13 at C&F office was also an opportunity for the marine stakeholders to express their opinions concerning marine conservation. Many spoke of threats to the environment from new developments and disappointment with how the current laws are enforced. Gore said that many people have concerns about the environment but are afraid to say anything.
Annie Muirhead, owner of Trimarine Boat Company , said it was a good meeting and that Gore has the right idea when it comes to marine conservation.
Even though the meeting brought together people from many different areas associated with the marine industry, she said they all had problems with the developments at Beef Island and Scrub island.
"Everybody was of one voice: protect the environment and keep these developments from going forward" Muirhead said.
A representative from the BVI Heritage and Conservation group (BVINCG) shared notes from the meeting with the Standpoint.
it seems many are frustrated with the state of environmental enforcement in the BVI, but C&F revealed some new things that offer hope for change.
Sewage is the number one threat to the environment, according to BVIHCG notes. Sewage pumpout stations will be included in the Moorings expansion and at Mainsail on Scrub, but sewage from BVI residents continues to be pumped into the sea untreated.
The last boating industry study was conducted in 1981, and the same problems remain: sewage, anchoring and fishing. C&F is working on a complete geographical survey of the BVI, and the boating industry needs to be looked at again, an attendee said.
New legislation in the works that would close loopholes in the current law and bring the National parks Trust and C&C into an Environmental Ministry, on the same level as the other ministries, according to the representative.
In the new law, 30% of each marine habitat will be protected, and in each area some activities will be prohibited.
Several people said that the development at Scrub Island should be shut down because they are not following the management plan they agreed to, the BVIHCG representative wrote. Fines for environmental damage are not large enough to stop developers from making mistakes, they continued, and no fines can replace a healthy environment.
An alternate plan for Beef Island was introduced that would preserve its natural resources as a tourism asset. The plan would include low-density tourist development, snorkel trails, hiking trails, boardwalks, bird watching and other amenities that would protect the eco system found there.
A C&F official encourage residents to read the VIP manifesto and hold them to the promises they made concerning environmental protection. It was also said that C&F does not have the manpower to enforce the regulations in its place.
Gore said that anyone with a stake in the marine environment of the BVI is welcome to be a part of the next meeting. Visit www.groups.yahoo.com and search for bvinrs. Membership requires a brief explanation of why they are a stakeholder in the marine ecosystem.
Meeting called by Conservation and Fisheries for the goal of open communication between government, non-governmental agencies and the boating community by improving communication and awareness of local laws, regulations and best management practices pertaining to marine conservation.
Meeting held at Conservation and Fisheries conference room, Thursday Sept 13th, 2007
I have gathered together some of the information that was handed out at the meeting, and then added some general ideas and issues that were discussed. Nothing pertaining to a particular person, just general thoughts.
Objectives:
Strengthen public and private partnerships through stakeholder meetings on the compilation and production of a Marine Awareness Guide for the BVI.
Produce a colorful and clearly written guidebook that includes maps depicting fisheries protected areas, proposed marine protected areas (sensitive areas), recommended anchorages for larger vessels, hurricane holes, proper use of NPT moorings, fisheries laws and regulations (open/closed seasons, applying for a fishing license etc.) and educational material on the importance of protecting marine life (including coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves, marine mammals, turtles, etc) and whatever else the other agencies come up with...
Improve communication between the different agencies and boaters in order to pass information pertinent agencies in terms of reporting illegal activities, adverse impacts, rare species sightings and happenings (including strandings, early stages of coral bleaching etc)
Provide general safety information relating to waves, currents, severe weather and potentially dangerous marine organisms.
Companies and agencies represented at meeting:
Conservation and Fisheries
National Parks Trust
Department of Disaster Management
British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
Charter Yacht Society
BVI Marine Association
VISAR
BVI Fishermans Association
Virgin Islands Environmental Council
British Virgin Islands Heritage Conservation Group
Moorins/Sunsail
Trimarine
Promenade Cruises
Peter Island Divers
Caribbean Marine Surveyors
SCUBA Shots BVI
Sail Caribbean
Shannon Gore of Conservation and Fisheries started by introducing and passing out a very rough draft of a Marine Awareness Guide (MAG) that they are working at putting out. This will be a yearly handbook, that they see as educational and will be available to everyone coming into the territory. The funding for the first years issue anyways, is part of the Moorings/Sunsail expansion agreement. IE: Moorings is paying for it the first year. Who knows after that. They are looking for help with ideas for it as well as an appropriate name for the guide (Marine Awareness Guide is too close to the Marine Guide, a commercial publication that already comes out yearly in the BVI)
A general guideline of what is being included in the Guide is:
1) Introduction and explanation of booklet
Dedication
2) Marine Habitats of the BVI.
What they are, why they are important, what is found in the BVI, where to see them, threats, your part, fun facts and fort more info.
a) Coral Reefs (dive locations?)
b) Seagrass Meadows
c) Beaches
D) Mangroves
e) Salt Ponds
3) Marine Species of the BVI
a) Fisheries
b) Marine Mammals
c) Sea Turtles
d) Sea birds
4) Marine related laws of the BVI
Fisheries Laws:
a) Fishery Protected Areas
b) Marine Protected Areas
c) Licensing
D) Conservation Measures, open and closed seasons, Moratoriums on size minimum and limits, prohibited export, prohibited fishing methods, pollution,
e) National Parks Trust Laws and Regulations
5) Best Conservation Practices
a) use of moorings
b) Anchoring (ports authority), general, larger vessels and in rough weather
c) Diving and snorkeling
d) Provisioning for the eco friendly boat
e) Sewage
f) Feeding the fish
6) Ocean Safety
a) Marine organisms to look out for
b) Fish poisoning
c) Lifeguards, Beach safety
d) Contact information who do you call when?
Some other areas that people thought should be commented on include the following:
A section of flamingoes, where the moorings are on each island, what to take and not take for "souvenirs", the need to revive fish before releasing (ie marlins, if not revived before being released, the sharks normally kill them anyways. Another trivia fact there is that the Marlins that used to be caught years ago were around a thousand lbs, now they are about three hundred lbs and we are taking them while they are making new little marlins, which is harming the counts and size), WHERE to report violations to, and the need for enforcement and out of office hours monitoring when things happen. It was also suggested that a spanish version would come in handy and that the tourist board in Puerto Rico could take it around to the yacht clubs etc there when they did there calls.
Shannon mentioned that she had a list of photos that she needed for the publication as well as "fun facts" on the BVI. This ties in the first year, with the International Year of the Reef and this being the BVI's contribution to it. It was also mentioned that we need to educate the children coming, as they are sponges, and will make sure the adults do what they are supposed to, so we should be talking to them. We should have children's ambassadors for conservation and perhaps a contest for naming the marine guide. 12 BVI children are going at the end of October to a summit of the ocean conservatory and we could start there. NPT mentioned that Jost Van Dyke had great success and just by doing a few days programs over there is started a new youth environmental group. It was also suggested that it did not have to be done on a terrritory level either, that each person or company or group could privately work with a school or youth group and involve them in the environment in some way.
B. Lettsome spoke of the need for a closer relationship between stakeholders. The only way to be successful it by working together, and as the environment goes, so goes the BVI. The last major boating industry study was done in 1981 and that it needs to be updated and they are looking at it for this year. They are also looking at C and F or finishing and upgrading a complete Geographic Survey of the BVI this year. Some major issues affecting the BVI back in the 1981 study were degradation of the environment due to anchoring, sewage, fishing, and they raised red flags then, and they still have not been addressed. That it was time for us to address it through dialogue. That on land and water, sewage waste is still the #1 environmental problem in the BVI. Moorings is putting in a pump out station at their expansion for their boats, and SCRUB Island will also have a pump out station for their boats. The question, especially on Scrub, was exactly what would be done with the sewage once it was collected?
In 1981 Hodges Creek Marina was the #1 anchorage in the BVI. 50% of the anchorages on Tortola back then are now marinas and where exactly are people supposed to cruise to once they get here? From marina to marina?
In a soon to be sitting of the house, there is comprehensive environmental legislation coming into law, this will basically put National Parks and Consevation under an Environmental Ministry that will be elevated to have the same status of other ministries. A lot of the environmental loopholes will now be closed.
The National Parks is expanded the protected areas, there will be at least 30% of EACH different type of marine habitat that will be protected. This means that you will not be able to fish in some areas, dive in some, anchor in some etc etc.
There was discussion on when you have an ownership in the environment you have a responsibilty. A couple people brought up that Mainsail on Scrub Island will have a direct line out to the deep sea fishing and Marlins and we had to put laws in effect to protect that. Whoever spoke up, really spoke against all the developments going on, Scrub Island, Beef Island, Oil Nut Bay, Smugglers Cove. Many thought that Scrub Islands development should be shut right down, that they were not following the agreed upon environmental plans and they were moving too much earth that was going into the sea and silting up. There was some discussion on which government agency could issue a stop work order, and they have already been issued compliance letters. That one of the problems with Oil Nut Bay was "out of sight, out of mind" if you don't see it you don't know what is going on and many people in the territory have no way of seeing what exactly is going on on other islands, and the people out on the water around the territory had the responsibility of letting others know what was going on. There was also some discussion of these "environmental fines" that were written into the development agreements were just a drop in the bucket to these big time money people and they just figure it into their costs, while the environment is priceless.
It was mentioned by several that we all needed to talk with one voice and we could still stop some of these developments. This led to discussion on the change of government. A lot of people were unwiling to publicly speak up against some of these things, as they would be targeted by government. B. Lettsome encouraged everyone to get hold a copy of the Virgin Islands Party Manifesto. It was pointed out that one of the things they ran on was environmental issues and the people elected them on it, so it was up to us to keep them to their words.
An alternate idea for Beef Island that Conservation and other proposed is making most of Beef Island a National Park with snorkel trails, hiking trails, boardwalks, bird watching, eco villas, airport hotel, historic sites, marine resources and eco tours. Preserve what we have before we lose it all.
Everyone agreed who was in enforcement, or tourism, that they are often asked or told by government to turn the other cheek. Some examples of this are when the tourist board questions how all these people in the 5 star resorts are going to get to the island, that there is not enough airline seats, or when the Puerto Rican Navy raft up right on the beaches and the locals complain, they are asked to look away as they provide a large amount of money. It was agreed that the enforcement issue was lacking. The point of conservation and fisheries people going up to boats who are fishing illegally or something with their shirt and tie on and no guns saying "please don't" to the boats who had guns was also mentioned.
The tourist board apparently has no overarching policy for tourist development. They are working on a new complaint/information database for the tourist board, and perhaps when it is done, C and F can modify it for their own uses in monitoring the complaints, and even if we cannot enforce all the laws, having the information will give us ammunition in the long run to get them enforced. The number one complaint is floaties in the water! C and F does have somewhat of an enforcement policy in place, they can then contact pollution department, marine police, fire, VISAR etc. It was also suggested that C and F loves information, and we could all have a stake in getting our guests to fill out questionnaires on the BVI. The tourist board does have some of those figures.
Some discussion on who has priority when there is priority sensitive areas? The local boats? The ones who come into the territory for the week? How do you prioritize where there is too many boats/people for an area?
The fisherpersons have concerns on the sewage that is being pumped on the reefs, and also people who are cutting off or opening fish traps and illegal fishing. It was suggested that maybe part of a guide book could be the areas where more fish traps traditonally to be. There also seems to be a lot of tussles over the areas where fishermen traditionally seine for fish, and perhaps this could be turned to a positive, where it is something we promote, "come see the traditional fishing practices at work" It was pointed out that the BVI has a much more rich life in turtles, whales and pelicans, that some of them cannot even be seen south of Anguilla.
Another area of concern that C and F brought up was the amount of boat work that is being done on docks in the marina and that it had to be held in check. That everyone could not just start sanding fiberglass.
The USVI has an Environmental Group, the Virgin Islands Network of Environmental Educators that is very effective at getting information out to everyone in a timely fashion, and perhaps this is something that we are working towards here.
I do have a copy of the 1981 Boating industry report and I will work on getting it up electronically for those who are interested in reading it. It was agreed by all that we would set up a "group" by email that would keep everyone informed on developments, and areas of concern, and try to connect with the other stakeholders in the industry that were not at the meeting to start everyone working together toward common goals, even though we all have divergent issues. That without an environment many of us would not be here in business any more. It was also mentioned by some that the last government was very hard on them keeping their businesses in the BVI and they had seriously thought of leaving and were hoping for positive changes with the new government. That if there was a marina in every harbor where exactly would these tourist go? There was also discussion on the large mega yachts anchoring practices and why it would be so beneficial for the environment and reef if they had designated anchoring areas instead of just coming into the territory for a week and destroying 200 years of coral growth.
If anyone thinks they should be added to the list of participants in this partnership, or has suggestions, please feel free to get in touch with Shannon Gore at Conservation and Fisheries.
Pictures of Oil Nut Bay taken Sept 11th, 2007
400 acre VG Resort Underway
By Luis Andres Henao, BVI Beacon
Development works at Oil Nut Bay in the Eastern peninsula of Virgin Gorda continue despite media reports that a "stop work order was issued to the developers by Town and Country Planning officials" The 400 acre development approved on nov 2003 would include a resort and beach club, low-density villas, a spa and fitness centre, and marine docks. Last week, a local newspaper quoted annonymous sources as saying that that developers received the stop work order after they infringed on environmental and planning laws. "that not accurate, We have not received a stop work order" said Jaime Rae Turnbull, Vice President of Sales and Marketing of Victor International, the Michigan based Oil NUt Bay developer. "We're very proud of our environmental stewardship and relationship with the BVI government"
However, the project has been questioned by conservationists, who criticize the altering of a salt pond on site and the lack of what they say is a proper Environmental Impact Assessment, as well as a series of public meetings to review the projet. Dylan Penn, a Town and Country planning official in charge of EIA's, said that his office met with the developers last week to warn them that development around the salt pond is illegal. "They hadn't applied for the permission to develop around that area" Mr Thomas said. However, the development "has not stopped" and developers are allowed to continue to work on a main dock, and the "jewel boxes" a set of demo beach houses used as a promotional sales pitch. "to stop a development you have to receive a warning or a compliance order. They didn't receive any of those, so the development wasn't officially stopped" Mr Thomas said. "Once people read that their mind is set. They might thinks it's illegal" Ms. Rae Turnbull said that work around the salt pond was done following the approval plans submitted to TCP "to protect units against storn surge inundation map...the entire beachfront needs to be raised for that reason" But, Shannon Gore, a marine biologist for the Conservation and Fisheries Department, who has inspected, the area several times, said the area in question has been altered and its vegetation has been cleared out. The development has a $1 million bond to "cover penalties or repairs in the event of violations or damages" according to documents reviewed at the RCP office.
A preliminary development study by Smiths Gore Ltd, ordered by the Spanish Town Development Company LTD, refers to a "small salt pond" located at the base of a bluff overlooking Oil Nut Bay's southern coastline. "In the past" the report says, "salt ponds have frequently been tampered with, either through landfill or extraction. the government now favours retaining salt ponds in their natural state" Ms Rae Turnbull said Victor International is "committed to maintaining wetlands of higher functionality" in the property. "The existing salt pond has been environmentally engineered to perform better that it was previously when it was a salt flat. it will result in less potential long term damage to the reef" she said.
Another issue arises regarding and EIA that is required for the development project. TCP documents say that an "EIA was prepared by Island Resources Foundation for Smiths Gore Overseas LTD" But Ms Gore that that it is not a proper EIA, and that the development should be required to provide one. "That was not an EIA" she said, "it was a scoping report, a description of the project, but it's not the full EIA. TCP has to lay the terms of reference because some projects don't require it" TCP met with developers last Wednesday, but according to Ms Rae Turnbull, they never received a request for an new EIA. In a shoreline resource description prepared by marine biologist Clive Petrovic for Smiths Gore in Aug 2001, environmental considerations are identified as a "key factor in deciding the scope of the project". Mr Petrovic, an experienced diver, said that in Oil Nut Bays shallow waters "just minutes from the shore, reefs are as good as can be found anywhere" "The question then becomes how to preserve and protect all these natural wonders while still proceeding with construction activities" Mr Petrovic said in his report. "It is not only possible, but realistic...It's primarily a question of priorites...the initial access to the mangroves must proceed slowly and carefully with every precaution to minimise silt and sediments dispersed into the marine environment. All developments on land, particularily the roads and boat houses behind the mangroves must be done with great care. All landed disturbed by construction must be stabliized immediately to prevent runoff. Otherwise there is a real risk the mangroves and sea grasses will suffer or perish" Chief Planning Officer Louis Potter, who was quoted in the article that reported the stop work order as saying "The project is stopped until they get back to us", said he did not wish to comment on the statement, adding that he wasn't aware of it "You know I don't read the newspapers" he said in a telephone interview Monday. Asked if the developers were advises to stop work, he said "The records speak for themselves" and added that developers always have permission to work on the roads and buildings, and that salt ponds would be discussed in upcoming public meetings later this month.
The Publics pulse on Development
Andrew Wilkins, The Standpoint
Development has been a hot topic in the the BVI for some times now, and several recent events could change the way it moves forward. How this country develops was one of the key issues in the recent change in Government. Work was stopped at Oil Nut Bay on Virgin Gorda earlier this month, several Government insiders are upset with how development on Scrub Island is proceeding and a new environmental group won the right to have the development deal for Beef Island reviewed by a judge last week.
With so much happening in this critical topic, and the fact that how the Territory develops will chart the Virgin Island's economic, social and environmental future, the Standpoint decided to hit the streets and take the pulse of the people concerning development. Development can be good for the country if it respects the natural environment and benefits the people who live here, two women standing on Main Street agreed. And if a developer does not obtain the proper permits and follow the law, as with Oil Nut Bay, it should be stopped, one of the women said. "We must consider the repercussions on the environment" she continued. "In an industry tourism that relies on the aesthetics, the beauty of the surroundings, we cannot develop for the sake of development. We have to consider the effect on the beaches and animals and work with Conservation to make sure all goes right" A man walking down Main Street said it was important to find a balance between benefiting locals and outsiders during the new development. It is important for the politicans to think about the welfare of everyone who lives here, BVIslanders, down islanders, expats and everyone else who contributes to this nation he said. beaches like Brandywine should be better developed, he added , so cruise ship passengers don't have to travel to the other islands to have a good time. His overall attitude on development was positive. "Development is good, it will help people get jobs" said the 17 year resident, originally from Guyana.
An elderly woman, who was born on Tortola, said Main Street should be better paved and safer for pedestrians. She said she was not against development, but if damage is done to the environment, whoever is responsible should pay to have it restored. "If they mash up the reef they should pay for it" she said, referring to Scrub Island and Oil Nut Bay. "The reef has been here from time before and it is very important to the people. They should be made to pay for that." Another young man said development is good because it benefits the economy. He agreed that it is important to be careful with development because too much could ruin the natural beauty that brings people here in the first place. Many of his friends cannot find jobs, he said, and they would be happy to make their living waiting tables at one of the new tourist resorts.
Last month, work was stopped by Town and Country Plannig at Oil Nut Bay on Virgin Gorda because developers cleared land near the beach and around the salt pond without Governments approval. Loca environmentalists contend the development is illegal because a full EIA and public meetings have not been conducted.
At Scrub Island, the Standpoint reported recently that a source close to the Planning Board said several officials inside the Government want to stop the project because of the environmental damage during construction. The management of the project was served a compliance letter from C&FD in May because construction protocols were not being followed and the project did not have sufficient environmental management. A new environmental group, the Virgin Islands Environmental Council won the right to have the development agreement for a 5 star hotel at Beef Island reviewed by a judge last week., Members of the VIEC said the agreement is unlawful because the development would harm a valuable fish spawning ground protected by the Fisheries Regulations.
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