The Ministry of Natural Resources on Monday revealed that the National Parks Trust of the British Virgin Islands has been awarded in Hong Kong for its work in improving the quality of life in 21 national parks.
The award came through the parks work in biodiversity conservation, historic preservation, reforestation, environmental education and outreach, and species recovery.
Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vincent Wheatley who received the award on behalf of the National Parks trust said the accolade further confirms that the territory of the Virgin Islands is moving in the right direction as it seeks to rebuild “stronger, greener and in a more sustainable manner”.
Dr. Cassander Titley-O’Neal, Director of the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands said the award is one which will be embraced by all involved project partners, who continue to assist the Trust in carrying out its conservation mandate.
She said: “The environment makes up our tourism product, which is an important economic pillar; without it we are nothing. We must be diligent and conserve these natural resources.”
She further added that such conservation efforts will continue to require the involvement of many persons, who can assist through various measures, which include donating land for conservation, volunteering within various parks and/or environmental programmes, hosting fundraisers, or by monetary donations.
The National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands (NPT) was established under the National Parks Ordinance of 1961 as a statutory body, responsible for parks and protected areas. They are a Board of Directors appointed by the Government of the British Virgin Islands, and collaborate closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and government departments such as Conservation and Fisheries and Town and Country Planning.
Over the years the National Parks Trust has grown from a voluntary organization to one that is now professionally staffed. The trust responsibilities have also increased from managing one National Park (Sage Mountain) in 1964 to now managing twenty-one National Parks, and it is anticipated that more parks will be declared in the future.
The Trust’s work also includes Species Restoration, Marine Conservation, Reforestation, Biodiversity Research & Conservation, Environmental Education and Historical Preservation.
Mr. Joseph Reynold O’Neal was the first Chairman of the National Parks Trust, when the first office opened in 1967. For his efforts in conservation in the BVI, the Botanic Gardens are named in his honour.