U.S. Virgin Islands Coastal Curriculum
The history of the U.S. Virgin Islands is complex, spanning occupation, exploitation, enslavement, revolt, freedom fighting, and emancipation. Recording and sharing this accurate history is crucial for current and future generations.
The diverse coastal and marine natural resources of the Virgin Islands, including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and associated fish and invertebrate species, define the beauty and productivity of our marine environment. These resources face threats from natural and anthropological sources such as climate change and associated impacts and poor water quality from land and marine-based sources of pollution. Ongoing efforts in coral reef and mangrove protection and restoration in the Virgin Islands aim to safeguard these critical resources. Protecting and stewarding these natural resources is essential, as the sustainability and well-being of present and future Virgin Islanders hinge upon it.
We invite all Virgin Islanders, including professional and recreational mariners, to explore this informative coastal guide! Together, we can preserve our islands’ rich natural and cultural resources for future generations.
Appreciation goes to the historians, scientists, and mariners of the Virgin Islands whose valuable time, expertise, and local knowledge contributed significantly to the Coastal Curriculum!
The Virgin Islands Conservation Society, Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association and Teal Earth Solutions authored this guide with support from the Coastal Zone Management Division of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Coastal Zone Management Award.
