Contact: Jerilee T. Hopkins : Asst. Information Officer
Telephone: 468-3701 ext 3323
Email: [email protected]
CONSERVATION & FISHERIES LAUNCHES MARINE AWARENESS GUIDE
Tuesday, March 4 – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Conservation and Fisheries Department have launched a magazine entitled, “Marine Awareness Guide”
The magazine, which is aimed at educating the public about the marine environment, was produced in partnership with The Moorings.
Speaking at the launching held last week, and on behalf of the Minister Hon. Omar Hodge, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour Mr. Clyde Lettsome said that the magazine will be of interest to the marine community, schools and the general public. “The guide also contains valuable information on conservation and preservation of the marine environment and its species, as well as information on some of the laws and policies that underpin the conservation efforts”, Mr. Lettsome added.
The Marine Awareness Guide is funded entirely by The Moorings. Speaking on behalf of the company, Director of Operations Mr. Clarence Malone, said that they are excited about the Marine Awareness Guide and have fully embraced this project, not just with words but with financial commitment as well. “We believe that if we can successfully build the awareness of the Territory’s youths about protecting our environment, they will in turn become better educated stewards of our environment when they are adults”, Mr. Malone added. Marine Biologists at the Conservation and Fisheries Department Ms. Shannon Gore and Mr. Mervin Hastings also spoke at the ceremony.
In the introduction of the Marine Awareness Guide, Chief Conservation and Fisheries Officer, Mr. Bertrand Lettsome wrote that people of the BVI depend on marine resources for food, recreation and the economic benefits that come from tourism. “The guide was created to raise awareness on the importance of protecting these resources for the people of the BVI and those who visit these islands”, Mr. Lettsome added.
The 56 page Marine Guide will be an annual publication and features marine habitats, marine species, marine-related laws, conservation practices, potentially dangerous marine organisms and storm preparation and safety measures. The Marine Guide will be distributed to all the schools in the BVI and is available at the Conservation and Fisheries Department and The Moorings.
