In early 2021, the the St. Croix East End Marine Park (STXEEMP) unveiled its new Visitor Center. This new facility introduces visitors to the Park, its habitats and its wildlife. These habitats include nearly 17 miles of beautiful shoreline and the longest fringing reef in the US Virgin Islands. The experience allows even the most land-lubber amongst us to enjoy a visit to the marine realm. Moreover, there is a variety of interactive elements for all ages.
Geared towards children and families, the multisensory exhibits are both educational and engaging. Visitors will learn about the importance of our Marine Protected Areas. They also learn about the organizations that are involved in protecting the Park. Furthermore, they also learn about responsible fishing practices, watersheds, why the coral reefs are important and what you can do to help protect the reefs and keep them healthy.
About the Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is open Wednesday thru Friday from 9:30am – 4:00pm. It also opens the first Saturday of the month from 9:30am – 4:00pm.
For more information on park events like Seagrass Patrol, snorkel tours and evening programs or volunteer opportunities email the Park’s Outreach and Education Coordinator at kelcie.troutman@dpnr.vi.gov OR follow us on social media @friends.stxeemp (Facebook and Instagram).
About St. Croix East End Marine Park
A natural and cultural treasure, St. Croix East End Marine Park is home to nearly 17 miles of beautiful shoreline and the longest fringing reef in the US Virgin Islands. This first territorial marine park was established in 2003. It was created to protect the natural and cultural resources of the East end of St. Croix.
The East End Marine Park is managed by the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Division of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources. CZM works with other divisions to address natural resource challenges in the territory. Those divisions include the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Division of Environmental Enforcement, and Division of Environmental Protection.
The Park is a multi-use Marine Protected Area, in order to allow for a variety of legal uses. Marine protected areas are an essential component of fisheries management in today’s world, in which ocean habitats and species are subject to a variety of threats. Closed areas provide safe havens for juvenile and adult fish. These animals use those habitats for all or part of their life cycle. Additionally, animals moving from closed areas provide replenishment to fished areas elsewhere.
The Park has so much to offer for recreational opportunities. Whether its diving, cycling, snorkeling, hiking, birding, or simply soaking up some sunshine, there are variety of ways to experience YOUR marine park.
