USVI Planning Natural Resources

USVI DPNR Reports Low Mercury Risk in Freshwater Ecosystems

The USVI Division of Fish and Wildlife announced results from its participation in the Dragonfly Mercury Project, a nationwide National Park Service initiative partnered with the U.S. Geological Survey. DFW biologists collected 72 dragonfly larvae samples across five Virgin Islands freshwater sites, documenting mercury concentrations ranging from 50 to 128 parts per billion. All measured sites were found to be below thresholds of concern, indicating low potential risk from mercury bioaccumulation in USVI freshwater ecosystems.

Commissioner Oriol Warns of Sargassum Beach Impact

The DPNR Division of Fish and Wildlife is advising the public to prepare as large sargassum clumps move into USVI beaches based on satellite imagery from the University of South Florida. Decomposing sargassum releases hydrogen sulfide producing respiratory irritation, and marine organisms inhabiting the algae can cause skin irritation. Boat operators should use reverse to clear propellers if tangled. Beachfront businesses requiring mechanical removal must apply for permits through DFW and the Division of Coastal Zone Management, while containment booms require Army Corps of Engineers authorization.

USVI Planning Natural Resources Press Releases Index

The USVI Department of Planning and Natural Resources maintains a press releases index page covering announcements from December 2025 through April 2026. Topics include monthly sargassum sea-sweed updates, Earth Day mercury study findings, a 140-acre property purchase above Perseverance Bay for the territorial parks system, announcements of the third annual Virgin Islands Coral Reef Week, a theft alert for a Fire Burn Queen Statue from Fort Frederik Museum, new CAD file submission requirements for subdivision applications, public hearing notices on proposed zoning map amendments, and various library, archives, and museum programming including art exhibitions and history month speaker series. The page serves as a navigation index for DPNR communications rather than a substantive regulatory document.