St. Croix, USVI Coastal Reef View. Photo Credit: NOAA CCMA BIOGEOGRAPHY BRANCH
In a pivotal move for environmental conservation, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has signed an executive order proclaiming the ecosystems of the U.S. Virgin Islands as "natural infrastructure." This recognition establishes the critical nature of these ecosystems, underlining their importance for territorial protection.
This announcement coincides with the U.S. Virgin Islands playing host to the annual jurisdictional meeting of the United States Coral Reef Task Force. The meeting, unfolding from October 22-27, is being held at The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas.
Governor Bryan's executive order outlines specific mandates for all Virgin Islands Government departments and agencies. These entities are instructed to undertake a range of actions that encompass administrative, enforcement, conservation, and enhancement measures. Furthermore, these directives are to be seamlessly integrated into the existing policies, procedures, rules, and regulations of the respective departments and agencies.
One of the direct outcomes of this executive order emphasizes collaboration. All Virgin Islands government agencies have been directed to work in unison to secure increased funding from federal sources. The aim is to strengthen protection measures for the natural infrastructure, particularly in anticipation of and following natural disasters.
Reiterating his dedication to environmental conservation, Mr. Bryan emphasized the imminent threats facing the USVI ecosystems.
For those interested in reviewing this or other executive orders in detail, they are available on the official government website at vi.gov.
