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Nature Conservation

Sunscreen and Coral Reefs in the VI

May 23, 2019 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

Call me an optimist, but I’ve always believed that people are inherently good and want to do the right thing when they are informed and educated.

In today’s world we are bombarded with information, much of it conflicting and that can lead to confusion and complacency.

Having lived through the catastrophic Hurricane season of 2017 that brought the US and its Territories storms named Harvey, Irma and Maria, I have no doubt that our Earth is changing and that average temperatures are rising. And these subtle temperature changes are having a devastating effect on coral reefs across the globe.

But the other day, I read something that made me proud to be a Virgin Islander and gave me some hope. Our local Government has introduced legislation to ban the retail sale, distribution, and importation of topical sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate with Bill 33-0043.

If signed into law, this will go into effect as of January 2021. The bill follows the lead of the state of Hawaii who passed similar legislation in May 2018. To date, Hawaii is the first and only state to pass this kind of ban. If signed into law, The US Virgin Islands would be the second out of the 50 states and Insular Territories to ban sunscreens containing these harmful chemicals.

If the coral reef isn’t the primary focus, then human health absolutely should be. The FDA just recently announced that only titanium and zinc oxide are generally recognized as safe. These other ingredients [oxybenzone and octinoxate] are known endocrine disruptors, which means they affect our hormonal development. Unborn children are being affected by this.

Cosmetic Chemist, Autumn Blum during testimony to the 33rd Legislature
as reported by The St Croix Source
Sunscreen Chemicals and Marine Life Infographic

Coral Reefs and Climate Change

Why is this such a big deal? Because coral reefs are dying at an alarming rate and anything we can do to slow or reverse that decline is imperative.

Elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata , is one of the most abundant species of coral around St Croix and is the backbone of our local barrier reefs.

Coral reefs provide a source of food and income to over 500 million people worldwide.

Here in the Caribbean, reefs provide food for people and marine life, a source of income from tourism and barrier reefs protect our islands’ shores from larger waves and storm surge. If you think of the Earth like your body, our waterways (both fresh and salt) are like the blood circulating through your body. The oceans and tides pump water across the globe and into the atmosphere. Coral reefs are like the tiny capillaries that feed your muscles and tissues to sustain life. A critical piece of the circulatory system.

Facts About Coral Reef Bleaching

A rise of only 2°C or 3.6°F in ocean temperature can cause a catastrophic coral bleaching event in just a matter of weeks. When you get a fever, it causes a stress response in your body. You sweat, get the chills and can become delirious. If your fever is high enough, brain cells can start to die. For coral reefs, their stress response to a high fever is called “bleaching”.

The corals themselves are the backbone of the reef ecosystem. One coral organism is made up of hundreds of thousands of tiny coral polyps. The coral polyps live in a symbiotic relationship with tiny plant cells (algae) called zooxanthellae. During the day, the zooxanthellae feed the coral through photosynthesis. These tiny algae are what gives the coral its color.

Corals provide food and shelter in the dynamic Reef Ecosystem.

At night, the coral polyps come out of their shell, reach out their tiny tentacles and catch microscopic animals in the water known as zooplankton.

When a coral is stressed by an increase in water temperature, they expel the tiny plant cells. When the zooxanthellae are gone, what we see is the calcium skeleton of the coral because the polyps are clear. The coral appears bright white. This is known as bleaching. It also means that the coral is slowly starving to death.

It is estimated that 80-90% of the coral reefs in Florida have died off. In the past 30 years alone the world has lost about 50% of its coral reefs through bleaching events.

Coral reefs are known as the rainforests of the sea. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on Earth and is visible from space. In 2016, 29% of the Great Barrier Reef died in a bleaching event. That is the equivalent of losing all the trees from Washington, DC to Maine.

Let that sink in for a moment.

… can you even visualize that? ?

Addressing things like Climate Change saves lives. It is within our power to make changes in our personal lives that incrementally make a difference. Make informed choices. Reduce waste. Buy locally sourced food and products when you can. Be an informed consumer and support products and businesses in your community and globally that are making a difference. Together we CAN change the world.

Coral Reef Safe Sunscreens

So what does this all have to do with sunscreen? Studies have shown that when corals absorb oxybenzone and octinoxate, they react in a similar way to a bleaching event. The chemicals cause added stress to the coral animal that makes them susceptible to disease and less likely to survive minimal rises in temperature. These same chemicals have been linked to endocrine disruption, neurologic and behavioral changes, and embryonic deformities in fish. Yuck! Imagine what that does to you when you absorb these chemicals through your own skin.

Of course, protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun – particularly when you are in the Caribbean and out on the water – is important. No one wants to ruin their vacation with a painful sunburn.

No matter where you are, but especially when in the Virgin Islands or near coral reefs, be sure to use coral reef safe sunscreens. By choosing Reef Safe sunscreens, you can avoid adding additional stressors to the reef ecosystem and our oceans.

  • Look for sunscreens that DO NOT contain oxybenzone and octinoxate.
  • Choose mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium oxide. These ingredients stay on top of your skin and block harmful UV rays. They are not associated with coral bleaching.
  • Make sure that the minerals are “non-nano” this means that the particles are larger than 100 nanometers and cannot be absorbed by corals. (or you!)
  • Scrutinize the labels. Many sunscreens will say “Reef Safe”, read the ingredients to be sure.
  • Wear UV filtering clothing and hats. Check out our 38-40 UPF Rashguards (UPF = Ultraviolet Protection Factor)

Here are some recommended Reef Safe Sunscreen brands:

See what’s in My Beach Bag!

Find more Reef Safe Sunscreen

I’ve tried to include links to Reef Safe Sunscreens that are less than 3oz and can fit in your TSA 311 approved carry-on liquids. Larger bottles can be packed in your checked luggage. You can also look for Reef Safe sunscreens at local scuba and snorkel charter shops on St Croix.

There is Hope for Coral Reefs Worldwide

It’s not all bad news! There are some great organizations here locally and across the globe, researching ways to grow and restore corals at a more rapid rate.

Right here on St Croix, The Nature Conservancy has been part of a revolutionary project that uses cutting edge technology and some fairly straight forward techniques to grow and restore corals. Cane Bay on our North Shore is home to a successful coral nursery growing coral embryos.

The 50 Reefs project was created during the filming of the Netflix documentary, Chasing Corals. The goal is to identify and protect 50 coral reefs globally that have the best chance of surviving the impacts of climate change. The Bloomberg Foundation has pledged 86 million dollars to the conservation project.

Chasing Coral on Netflix examines coral reefs dying on a massive scale across the globe.

Love the oceans and coral reefs?

Three-quarters of St Croix is surrounded by one of the longest contiguous island barrier reefs in the Caribbean, which means there’s lots of amazing snorkeling right offshore. Its the perfect way to appreciate and enjoy our coral reef ecosystem. Learn more about snorkeling on St Croix.

Google Earth St Croix

Be sure to include a snorkeling trip to Buck Island on your next St Croix adventure. Part of the National Park System, most of Buck Island Reef National Monument is underwater. The NPS requires new visitors to the underwater trail to explore the reef with a licensed guide.

Want to go deeper and see more reefs? Book a dive with one of our local PADI certified scuba tour operators or learn to scuba while you’re here.

Filed Under: coral reef, Featured, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Vacation Tips

Earth Day on St Croix: 5 Ways to Make a Difference

April 22, 2019 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 3 Comments

Every Day is Earth Day on St Croix

Born in 1970 (like me!) Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22nd. Things have come a long way since I was a child, but with the effects of climate change becoming more and more evident, there is still a long way to go in helping Mother Earth. Here on St Croix where its summer year-round, we enjoy outdoor living and spend a lot more time in nature whether it’s out on the ocean or in our own backyards. So, every day it’s important that we take the time to monitor and minimize our own personal impact on this beautiful island. Here are 5 ways that you can help whether you live here or are just visiting our island home:

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle St Croix!

Volunteers Making a Difference!

While we don’t have a formal government recycling effort here on the US Virgin Islands, yet (note I said “yet” as I am always hopeful they will come around) … over the past year or so there has been a widely successful Volunteer Plastic Recycling program headed up by Plaza West Grocery store.

Each Saturday you’ll find volunteers in the Plaza Extra West parking lot from 7:00am to noon collecting CLEAN plastic for recycling. There are also several other island locations, schools and organizations that are participating.

To find a list of current St Croix drop-off spots click here to go to the Volunteer Recycling Project FaceBook page.   Plaza Extra West takes care of crushing, preparing and shipping the plastic to an off island facility. Kudos to Plaza West for being such excellent community members!

Click to View Full Size

Accepted:

  • Clear and LIGHT colored plastic containers with the covers removed (they can also be recycled but should be removed and then thrown in the bag)
    • Water, Soda & Sports Drink bottles
    • Gallon Water, Milk, Juice, Tea jugs
    • Butter, Yogurt, Icecream, grated cheese containers
    • Condiment bottles
    • Jelly & Nut butter containers
    • Detergent, Bleach & Cleanser bottles
    • Cooking Oil Bottles
    • Loose plastic and plastic bags

NOT Accepted:

  • Dark Colored plastics
  • Laundry Baskets
  • Hangers
  • Motor Oil Containers

Keep it Cool

Corksicle Tumbler on Amazon

On St Croix and throughout the Caribbean islands, fresh water is a precious commodity. Most of us use cisterns (big holding tanks instead of basements) to catch and use rainwater at our homes. For that reason, unfortunately, many local restaurants and beach bars serve up your favorite Cruzan cocktails in plastic or styrofoam (boo!!!).

Thankfully, due to local campaigns many restaurants have stopped using disposable straws (or only serve them upon request). But, many still use disposable plastic and styrofoam cups and containers ?. Nowadays there are great sustainable options for single use cups, flatware and straws like corn-based plastic (still not ideal) or bamboo. So, please help us to encourage local restaurants to switch to non-plastic, sustainable single-use cups, takeout boxes, straws and flatware to reduce the amount of trash headed to our landfills.

Better yet, bring your own reusable insulated cup and takeout containers! I LOVE my Corksicle tumbler for keeping my Cruzan Rum and soda ice cold and my steel straw for sipping beachside. There’s even a great Corksicle Canteen that holds a full bottle of wine chilled. I bring mine most everywhere I go and throw it in the dishwasher when I get home.

Carry In, Carry Out

There’s a frequently used phrase heard in many National Parks and wild spaces … Leave only Footprints, Take only Pictures. Do the same here on our island please. It should be a no brainer, but be sure if you are visiting one of our beaches to bring along an extra trash bag. All beaches in the United States Virgin Islands are public. However, they do not have regular trash pickup (or really any). So, be sure that you carry out any and ALL trash and items that you bring to the beach. Don’t leave behind your cigarette butts, beer cans or plastic cups. They end up in our oceans or littering our beaches. Pick up your trash and any other that you find on the beach. PLEASE do your part to protect our oceans!

Show Your Love for our Coral Reefs

Part of the draw of St Croix is our incredible barrier coral reef. Three quarters of St Croix is surrounded by the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean! And of course there’s the coral reef out at Buck Island National Monument. The coral reef is home to a plethora of brightly colored fishes and other marine life that make for some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. However, worldwide coral reefs face many challenges, including warming ocean temperatures. But, one of the great threats to our reefs are the chemicals that you bring with you on your skin when you wear sunscreen. Oxybenzone, commonly found in many sunscreens, has been shown to not only kill the coral polyps that grow the reef, but its also a known carcinogen. Be sure that when you are on St Croix you are using Coral Reef Safe Sunscreens to protect yourself AND our precious coral reef system. Learn more: Sunscreens a Threat to Coral Reefs

Jack and Isaac Bay St Croix USVI

BYOB Bring Your Own Bag

The US Virgin Islands has also recently banned single-use plastic bags. So be sure you bring a reusable shopping bag when you head to the market or shopping for souvenirs. Our washable Canvas tote bags are a great option and hold a ton of produce. They also make great beach bags!

By taking a little time and personal responsibility, we can all leave the Earth better for the next generation. What are some of your best eco-friendly tips? Share them for us in the comments below!

Filed Under: coral reef, Featured, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation

St Croix Summer Lovin: Sea Turtle Nesting Season

June 14, 2017 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

sea turtle nesting season on st croix virgin islands

Summer on St Croix means that things slow down just a little, mangoes are dripping from the trees and sea turtles are getting frisky off shore. It’s sea turtle nesting season. Three out of 7 species of endangered sea turtles can be found nesting on our shores in the summer and early fall: Leatherback, Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbills. (We also infrequently have Loggerheads that make landfall!). Sea Turtles are some of my favorite St Croix locals.

If you are visiting St Croix’s beaches during this time of year, there are some important things to know about sea turtles and the things you can do to make nesting season safer for them.

Sea Turtle Facts

Sea turtles spend all their lives in the water and only come ashore to lay their eggs and rarely to sun themselves. That means that most male sea turtles never set foot on land after they hatch!

Cold-blooded reptiles, sea turtles sun themselves on the surface to increase their body temperature. When resting, they can hold their breath for up to 5 hours. When active, they surface every 5-10 minutes to take a breath. Boat strikes are a huge threat to sea turtles, so it’s important to always keep an eye out for them in our waters, particularly during the summer mating season.

Green Sea Turtle
Green Sea Turtle

Though they don’t read calendars or horoscopes, you will find sea turtles mating and nesting on St Croix mainly during the summer months. Nesting season and primary location vary by species:

  • Leatherback Sea Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) 
    • Nesting: May – July
    • Hatching: July – September
    • Primary location: Sandy Point (West End)
  • Hawksbill Sea Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) 
    • Nesting: July – November
    • Hatching: September – January
    • Primary location: Buck Island National Park &
      main island St Croix
  • Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) 
    • Nesting: August – November
    • Hatching: October – January
    • Primary location: Jacks & Isaacs Bay (East End)

Depending upon the species, females reach sexual maturity between 15 and 30 years of age. They will return to the beach that they hatched on and lay anywhere from 60-160 eggs in a single clutch (the group of eggs in the nest). Sea turtles face an enormous amount of threats as they grow from predators, ocean pollution and trash, and long-line fishing. It is estimated that only 1 sea turtle out of 100 will live long enough to mate and nest!

Leatherback Sea Turtle digging her nest

How to Help Sea Turtles During Nesting Season

Because sea turtles spend the majority of their lives underwater, they are very sensitive to artificial light (light bulbs). It’s EXTREMELY important if you see a nesting sea turtle at night that you DO NOT use any type of flash photography. This can disorient or temporarily blind the nesting female making her vulnerable to predators waiting for her back in the water.

Lights can also disorient sea turtle hatchlings. They are attracted to artificial light sources (bulbs) like a magnet. So, if you notice a nest hatching happening be sure to turn off all the lights in the area for the evening. Baby sea turtles have a critical burst of energy when they hatch that allows them to get to the sea and swim out past awaiting predators on the beach and in the shallows. Lights onshore may cause them to turn around which can exhaust them and make them even more vulnerable.

  • If you are staying at a location that faces the water, try to keep shore facing lights off at night unless they are amber bug lights or infrared lights.
  • If you live on St Croix and have a coastal facing home – use “bug lights” or amber or infrared colored lights. Avoid blue-hued lights. As the ocean gets deeper, the red portion of the spectrum of light is removed. So sea turtles “see” blue but not red. Motion activated lights are a good choice for security as they do not remain on all the time.
  • Rule of thumb is that if you stand at the water’s edge on the beach and can see the light source (bulb) it is visible to a nesting female or hatchling.
  • Learn more about Safe Sea Turtle Lighting on Broward County, Florida’s website They have led the way for Community Sea Turtle Conservation and Education.
  • DarkSky.org provides great information on light fixture options that are also safe for sea turtles.

All sea turtles in our waters are protected by the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). This means that it is illegal to touch, harrass or harm a sea turtle. If you observe a female coming ashore to nest in the evening – stay at least 50 feet away and try to stay behind her line of site (behind her head). You should also remain very still. Sudden movement can spook a female causing her to abandon her attempt to lay her eggs.

Sea Turtle Hatchlings

Nests tend to hatch in the early evening just before sunset. If you see a nest hatching, stand back and enjoy this miracle of nature. Do not attempt to pick up or touch the hatchlings! Many scientists theorize that they pick up scent or magnetic cues from the sand which help them return to the beach they were born on when they reach sexual maturity. HOWEVER, if you notice hatchlings going in the wrong direction away from the water, you can pick them up and put them back down on the beach facing the ocean 3-6 feet from the water’s edge.

Leatherback hatchling headed to the sea

Keep our oceans clean

Carry in, Carry out when you go to the beach. Because sea turtles feed off of invertebrates like jellyfish and marine vegetation, they are vulnerable to accidentally feeding on plastic and other trash that ends up in the ocean. They can’t digest plastic. Eventually, it can block their digestive system leading to death.

Do your part to keep our oceans clean for all marine life. Avoid balloon releases that end up in the sea. Bring a bag with you to the beach for your own trash and any other you see and properly dispose of it.

hawskbill sea turtle
Look for Hawksbill Sea Turtles when snorkeling or diving the coral reefs

Together we can help to ensure that Leatherback, Green and Hawksbill Sea Turtles continue their St Croix summer lovin’ for generations to come.

If you are interested in participating in a Sea Turtle Watch on St Croix, become a member of the St Croix Environmental Organization (SEA) and check their calendar of events for Turtle Watch programs during the summer at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge.

Filed Under: coral reef, Current Feature, Featured, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Travel Tips, Vacation Tips

1 little Island with 3 National Parks!

August 25, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

St Croix National Parks

St Croix may be a little island only 26 miles long and at its widest about 6 miles across, but we are blessed with THREE National Parks ensuring that we preserve and protect our beautiful environment while enjoying the great outdoors and learning about the island’s history.

Whether you’ve got a National Parks Pass or not – be sure to make each of these a stop on your next visit to St Croix!

Buck Island Reef National Monument

View of Buck Island from the East End of St Croix
View of Buck Island National Park from the East End Marine Park on St Croix
Buck Island St Croix Snorkeling Beaches

Located just about 2 miles off of St Croix’s North East Shore lies the uninhabited marine playground known as Buck Island Reef National Monument. The protected marine park lies mainly underwater with less than a third of it being the land known as Buck Island. The West end Reef contains a guided trail through one of the most beautiful coral gardens home to a wide variety of colorful marine life. The West end beach known as “Turtle Beach” is nesting ground to hawks-bill turtles and a popular spot for local boaters on the weekend. To get here you’ll have to hitch a ride with one of the NPSs approved Buck Island Tour Operators who will provide you with the boat ride, snorkel gear, expert guides and guaranteed entertainment!


Christiansted National Historic Site

Not only is the entire downtown area of Christiansted listed as a National Historic Site, but it includes the National Park System’s 7-Acre Christiansted National Historic Site. This beautiful urban park is the anchor of the downtown area and is comprised of a large historic complex that includes the iconic yellow Danish built Fort Christianvaern, a gorgeous waterfront sweeping lawn that hosts community, family-friendly events like the monthly Movies at the Fort, the historic Danish Count House and the oldest Church on the island now known as the Steeple Building. Explore the park and learn about the history of the island through displays in Fort Christianvaern from pre-history through the Danish colonies to today. You’ll find books and other gifts at the Count house and monthly talks in the park by NPS educators and other scholars on topics like history, ecology, historic preservation and more!


Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve

www.mystcroix.vi

Salt River Bay is a unique and amazing living history museum! Learn about pre-Columbian indigenous peoples who inhabited the island prior to Columbus’ Second Voyage to the “New World”in 1493. He stopped right here at Salt River and the first fight of sadly too many broke out between Columbus’ men and the local inhabitants of the Americas. Nowadays in season you can pop into the Visitor’s Center on the hill above the bay to enjoy rotating exhibits and learn more about the area. Year-round I highly recommend going out onto Salt River Bay on a kayak tour – and for those who want something really spectacular head out during the darker nights of the month to experience the BioBay! At the back of the bay is a tiny inlet that is filled with millions of little creatures who glow- or bioluminesce – in the water when you move your hand or your kayak. It’s an incredible natural phenomena that you won’t want to miss. Or if you just want to relax and take a swim, head over to Columbus Cove Beach.

One little island – three spectacular National Parks. Have you been to St Croix’s National Parks? Let us know in the comments below!

Filed Under: Crucian Heritage, Featured, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, St Croix History, Travel Tips, Vacation Tips

Best Snorkeling on St Croix and the Virgin Islands

May 24, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

Part of the allure of St Croix and the US Virgin Islands is the underwater marine life abundant off of our shores. You don’t have to be a certified PADI Scuba diver to experience these wonders. The Virgin Islands are surrounded by coral reefs that can be explored by snorkeling.

Teeming with life, St Croix itself is surrounded by one of the largest island barrier reef systems in the Caribbean. It also boasts one of the only two underwater U.S. National Monuments at Buck Island Reef National Monument. So, there is no shortage of spectacular snorkeling spots on St Croix and throughout the US Virgin Islands.

Cane-Bay-Snorkel

However, finding the best beaches to explore from was a bit of a secret until, that is, Sarah & Jim took a trip to St Croix in 2010.

sarjim
Jim & Sarah

Jim, who hails from the land-locked state of Indiana first visited and fell in love with St Croix in 2005. At the time, he had a printing client whose cousin, Kim Lucas of Island Life Real Estate, had relocated to the Big Island. In need of a vacation, he decided to check it out. Upon arrival, Jim said he was “blown away by the beauty of the place”.

In 2010 after Jim & Sarah started dating, he invited her to experience his island escape. Sarah had never seen the shades of turquoise and blues in our waters and so, as a self-described shutterbug, took thousands of photos around St Croix.

During their first visits to the island, they stayed at The Carrington Inn. They had fallen in love with snorkeling off the island’s shores and began to make recommendations of their favorite spots and even led other fellow snorkelers on impromptu excursions. Due to the popularity of their recommendations and at the request of the proprietor, they put together a flip-book for Carrington’s. The flip-book was a popular tool at the Inn and based on this, and Jim and Sarah’s collective backgrounds in printing, the concept for the 1st edition of the St Croix Snorkeling Guide was born.

The St Croix Snorkeling Guide enjoyed some success and with that, they noticed that there were plenty of books about Scuba-diving spots throughout the Virgin Islands, but nothing on snorkeling. Sarah and Jim decided to branch out and in 2014 published The US Virgin Islands Snorkeling Guide: St Thomas, St John, St Croix.

Nowadays, Sarah and Jim, publishing as Sarjim Enterprises, spend a couple of weeks each year exploring and snorkeling throughout the Virgin Islands to discover more sites  on each of the islands for their books. Can’t beat that for a side job!

On a trip to St Croix back in February of 2015, they experienced some rough weather and lots of swell that prevented them from enjoying their typical snorkeling adventures. Not ones to be discouraged, they decided instead to take a trip out to Buck Island Reef National Monument. This was a bit of kismet as they searched in advance for a guide to Buck Island and again didn’t find anything. So, they consulted with Joel Tutein, Superintendent of the National Park and produced their newest book From Sea to Shore: Buck Island Reef National Monument-St.Croix.

While meeting with them on their most recent trip this year, I asked them to share with us some of their favorite snorkeling spots:

St Croix –

  1. The Frederiksted Pier – It’s like a whole universe under the pier. Every time we snorkel there we see things we haven’t seen before. And there’s always new coral forming.
  2. Sand Castles Beach – Offshore (a short swim out) and about .2 miles up the beach towards Frederiksted, there’s old sunken machinery now covered with corals and more starfish than anywhere on the island we’ve seen.
  3. Cane Bay – On a calm day with clear visibility snorkeling out past the beach to the coral gardens is just amazing.

St Thomas–

  1. Secret Harbor Beach
  2. Cowpet Beach

St John–

  1. Tektite Beach – You’ll hike and swim a bit to get to some beautiful underwater caves and canyons.
  2. Frances Bay – See huge sea turtles late morning in the seagrass beds.
  3. Haulover North

Look for tips on some of the above beaches and new information on snorkeling the mangroves in the USVI in their upcoming releases!

Sarah & Jim’s books are geared to be accessible for Beginner Snorkeling enthusiasts and explorers and can be enjoyed by all ages.

And while you’re snorkeling in the Virgin Islands, be sure to stay safe from the strong sunrays by covering up with Reef Safe Sunscreen (free from oxybenzone that is harmful to corals) –  Learn more about keeping our Reefs Safe.

Do you have a favorite snorkeling spot on St Croix or in the Virgin Islands? Tell us about it in the comments below!
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Filed Under: coral reef, Family Fun, Featured, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Travel Tips, Vacation Tips

Humpback Whale Migration in the US Virgin Islands

March 11, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Humpback Whales of the Caribbean

Having moved to the Virgin Islands myself in order to avoid chilly New England winters, I completely understand the draw for snowbirds (winter island residents). There’s a strong connection between St Croix and the New England area. Enjoy a meal at Duggan’s Reef Restaurant with all of the Massachusetts college and university pennants lining the ceiling and listen to owner Frank Duggan’s Boston accent and you’ll feel just like you’re on Cape Cod. Take a sunset sail aboard the Schooner Roseway anchored in St Croix during the winter. If you miss her, you can jump aboard in Boston Harbor where she spends her summers. Bottom line, St Croix is a great place to escape the erratic cold and snow of a New England winter.

However, these aren’t the only New Englanders who enjoy St Croix’s shores. From about February through mid-April you may also catch a glimpse of some of my favorite “snowbirds”. The migrating Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) whose Latin name translates to “Big winged New Englander”.

Due to the financial and cultural significance of the Humpback to the whaling industry (and it’s subsequent population crash), it is one of the most researched species of whales. Thankfully, due to that research and conservation efforts – including the Endangered Species act of 1973, the population has rebounded in recent decades and the West Indies population is now listed as “Least Threatened” by the IUCN Redlist.

So, other than the balmy weather and swaying palm trees, why do Humpbacks migrate to our waters in the winter months?

Humpback Whale by Steve Simonsen

These huge marine mammals can measure 52 ft (16 m) long and weigh up to 40 tons with the females being slightly larger than the males. The humpback lifespan is approximately 50 years. Adult humpback whales have about 10 inches of blubber that protects them and keeps them warm in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. Some even do stay during the winter. However, newborn whale calves don’t yet have that protection. So, most of the populations migrates to the tropics in the winter to mate and give birth.

NOAA’s Distinct Population Segments. The blue areas are where the populations mate and give birth (we are #1). The connected green areas represent their summer feeding areas. Source: NOAA Fisheries

However, the warm, clear waters of the Caribbean Sea don’t have the abundance of nutrients that are found in the North Atlantic. Humpback whales are filter feeders who open their huge mouths gulping schools of small crustaceans (mainly krill), small fish and sand eels and then pushing the water out through their baleen. Because of their enormous size, they require tons of those little critters (Literally. They can eat up to 3,000 lbs per day!). The crystal clear waters of the Caribbean, by nature, don’t have that abundance of bite-sized food.  So, for their 5-month winter vacation, they eat very little and lose up to 25% of their body mass. The calves are born in the warm waters of the West Indies and once the babies are ready, the families migrate North in the Spring to spend their first summer season eating and growing and eating and growing in order to withstand colder ocean temps. One of their popular feeding grounds is Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary off of the coast of Massachusetts & Maine. Stellwagen Bank is an offshore drop off that creates and upwelling where cold water meets warmer water. These upwellings are rich in nutrients that attract little fish and crustaceans, which attract bigger fish… and marine mammals!

Humpback whale breaching off of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary during the summer months. These very same whales are seen in the waters of the Virgin Islands each winter.

Humpback families in the North Atlantic range in summer from Stellwagen Bank off of the coast of Massachusetts and the Gulf of Maine in the west to Ireland in the east, and up to but not into the pack ice in the north; the northern extent of the humpback’s range includes the Barents Sea, the Greenland Sea, and the Davis Strait, below the Canadian Arctic. Each humpback family always goes back to the same summer feeding grounds – for example, the Stellwagen Bank humpbacks always return home to Stellwagen for the summer; The Greenland families always go back to Greenland. But, they all come down to the West Indies in the winter. This mixing of families during the mating months helps them to maintain genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding.

Here in the Virgin Islands, scuba divers infrequently see them (it does happen for some super lucky folks), but often hear the males singing their intricate songs to attract females for mating. These beautiful songs have been studied extensively and are an incredible form of communication. And because of the low frequency they are sung at underwater, the sound can travel for up to 20 miles. It was Dr. Roger Payne who has studied whales since 1967 that discovered that these songs have a syntax and complex patterns. If you have any interest in learning more about whales, their songs or animal behavior – I highly recommend reading his book “Among Whales” or watch his documentary “A Life Among Whales
“.

Though we don’t have commercial whale watching excursions here on St Croix, they are often seen by boats sailing offshore and can even be seen breaching from land since much of our shelf drops right offshore. One year, boaters off of Buck Island were lucky enough to encounter a female humpback with her baby as they sailed back from a day at the beach. Often in the midst of these once-in-a-lifetime thrills, we forget that these wild animals can be vulnerable too. So, it’s is very important for boaters to note that Humpbacks and other cetaceans (whales and dolphins) are Federally protected from “take” [ Defined by Section 3(18) of the Federal Endangered Species Act: “The term ‘take’ means to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct.” ]. Humpback whales can be stressed (harrassed) by extended interaction and there are very clear guidelines that have been established to avoid this.

If you are on a boat that encounters a humpback whale or other cetacean, the captain should observe the following Whale Wise Guidelines:

  • SLOW DOWN: reduce speed to less than 7 knots when within 400 metres/yards of the nearest whale. Avoid abrupt course changes.
  • DO NOT APPROACH whales from the front or from behind. Always approach and depart whales from the side, moving in a direction parallel to the direction of the whales.
  • DO NOT APPROACH or position your vessel closer than 100 metres/yards to any whale.
  • If your vessel is not in compliance with the 100 metres/yards approach guideline, place engine in neutral and allow whales to pass.
  • LIMIT your viewing time to a recommended maximum of 30 minutes. This will minimize the cumulative impact of many vessels and give consideration to other viewers.

(the above are just a few of the Whale Wise Guidelines. Boaters should review the full list. Another great resource is NOAA’s Stellwagen Whale Watching Guidelines )

Though I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up in New England in a family that is slightly whale watching obsessed, I still haven’t seen one myself here on St Croix. But, when I finally have that incredible experience, I will definitely share it with you!

Many thanks to Dr. Lisamarie Carrubba, NOAA Fisheries & Lia A. Hibbert, Earth Resources Technology, INC. In support of  NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program for their input on the Humpbacks of the West Indies!

Have you been whale watching or seen humpbacks in the Caribbean? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!

Filed Under: Featured, humpback whales, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Vacation Tips

Sunscreens a Threat to Coral Reefs

October 21, 2015 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Three-quarters of St Croix is surrounded by the largest living barrier reef in the Caribbean. And then we have the incredible reefs just off shore surrounding Buck Reef National Monument. These reefs provide homes for a myriad of plants and animals, including the colorful fish we love to see snorkeling and endangered sea turtles. Our community relies on the beauty of the reefs, the fish that live on the reef and the commerce that comes from diving and snorkeling these gorgeous coral reefs. So, we have a vested interest in preserving and protecting them. One of the ways that you can help us, is by using coral reef safe sunscreen for sun protection while on our island and in our waters.

Jack and Isaac Bay St Croix USVI

Coral reefs worldwide have been struggling with rising water temperature, boat anchors, pollution and runoff among other factors. To put it mildly, our oceans’ reefs are in peril. Oxybenzone has been shown to deform and reduce the mobility of coral planulae (the larval stage). It also causes mutations in the DNA of the planulae and affects its endocrine system. And this has a debilitating effect on the corals’ ability to survive rises in ocean temperature due to climate change.

A recent study conducted in the US Virgin Islands and Hawaii has  shown that coral reefs with the highest concentrations of oxybenzone, commonly used in sunscreens, are those most frequented by tourists. But, it’s not just the snorkelers in the water. Wearing sunscreen while touring around the island and then coming home and taking a shower eventually creates runoff that ends up in our waters and affecting the coral reef as well. “Oxybenzone is mixed in more than 3,500 sunscreen products worldwide, including popular brands such as Coppertone, Baby Blanket Faces, L’Oreal Paris, Hawaiian Tropic and Banana Boat” according to a Washington Post article addressing the issue.

Here’s how you can help!

We all know that protecting your skin from damaging UV rays is important, especially for the young ones. Make sure that when you are out in the Caribbean sun, particularly when you are out in the water, you are applying coral reef safe sunscreen and protecting yourself from UV rays. Here are some smart and coral-safe ways to protect yourself in the Caribbean Sun.

 

  • Surfer Style. Wear clothing with UV Protection like a Rash Guard while in the water. You can be cute and stylish while protecting your skin.
  • Au Natural. Use oxybenzone free sunscreens. Though controversial, some studies imply oxybenzone is harmful to humans as well. Did you know your skin is the largest organ you have… and what you put on it, absorbs into your body. Let’s face it, it may be safer for us too.
  • Shade Lovin’. Trust me, here in the islands you’ll get a nice glow simply walking from your car to lunch. Learn to love the shade like an islander and avoid basking in the harmful rays when possible.
  • Now that you’re in the know about avoiding sunburn and being kind to our coral reefs, check out our St Croix Snorkeling Guide!

Looking for Sunscreens that are not only guaranteed to be kind to the environment, but also safe for you and your family? Check out some of the options below!

Filed Under: Buck Island Reef, coral reef, Family Fun, Featured, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Travel Tips

Alien Invaders :: Lionfish, Alien Predators of the Reef

January 5, 2012 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

lionfish-invasion-smithsonianInvasive. Poisonous. Devastating.

Got your attention didn’t I?! Well these aliens in our waters are no joke. Lionfish are native to Indo-Pacific  waters where they are kept in check by their natural environment and predators like grouper who are familiar with hunting them over thousands of years. However, here in the Caribbean, they are a new and alien species who multiple like crazy and have no natural predators – and they are taking over our reefs at an alarming rate.  When I first started diving 10 years ago, we hadn’t even heard of lionfish in these waters. In fact, its only been in the past few years that they have been seen here at all.  And now, I can almost guarantee I’ll see AT LEAST one on each dive I do. It’s scary.  According to Dr. Mark Hixon from Oregon State University who is studying lionfish in the Bahamas along with NOAA’s Undersea Research Program (NURP),  “Due to their population explosion and aggressive behavior, lionfish have the potential to become the most disastrous marine invasion in history by drastically reducing the abundance of coral reef fishes and leaving behind a devastated ecosystem.”

The commonly agreed upon theory is that lionfish were first introduced into Atlantic waters in the 1990’s by aquarists dumping their exotic tanks into the ocean after hurricanes in Florida. (or maybe flushing ala Finding Nemo?!) and have subsequently spread up the East Coast and down into the Caribbean following the reefs of the Antilles chain. Genetic testing of lionfish in the Atlantic shows that this rapid spread could be the result of as few as THREE of the little buggers being released into Florida’s waters. According to Smithsonian Magazine “In 2000, a recreational diver saw two tropical lionfish clinging improbably to the submerged ruins of a tanker off the coast of North Carolina, nearly 140 feet below the surface. She alerted the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, which started tracking lionfish sightings in the Atlantic. Within two years, the fish had been seen in Georgia, Florida, Bermuda and the Bahamas. They are now known to live from Rhode Island to Belize.” Talk about Alien Invasion!

So what’s the big deal? Well, I’ll tell you. They may be beautiful, but they are deadly to our reef ecosystems. Lionfish can grow up to a foot long and eat fish as large as 2/3 the size of their own body and their stomach’s can expand 30 times their normal size. They have voracious, non-discriminating appetites that include shrimp, parrotfish, juvenile groupers and other inhabitants of the coral reef system. They can lay up to 2 MILLION eggs per year that float on the surface and are carried swiftly by the ocean currents to new locations. In many areas of the Atlantic seaboard – including North Carolina – lionfish have become the predominant species on the reefs.  Parrotfish are just one species that play a critical role in the reef environment eating algae and preventing it from smothering the coral polyps. This invasion has an obviously devastating effect not only on the reef ecosystems, but  with a trickle down effect on local, commercial and sport fishing and other underwater tourism (snorkeling and Scuba diving).

“I call them the Norwegian rats of the sea,” said George Burgess, director of shark research at the Florida Museum of Natural History. “Just like rats, they are spreading all over the world, and you can shoot them, poison them, or curse them all you want, but they aren’t going to go away.”

My weapon of choice is the pole spear with trident tip. Click to purchase!

Not one to take this invasion sitting down, I decided to do my part, along with a group of dive buddies, and take a PADI Lionfish Eradication Specialty Course from St Croix Ultimate Blue Water Adventures here on St Croix. In fact, I was lucky enough to be taking the course by the guy who wrote it – Dive Instructor Simeon Tolar  Yep, I’m now a card-carrying Lionfish Huntress! I opted to take a class, rather than just go out and start shooting for a couple of reasons. First, Lionfish are venomous and their spines pack a powerful punch. I wanted to be sure that I knew the proper way to handle them without getting hurt and I needed to know what to do in case I got speared by the spiny brats. Second, our coral reefs and the reef fishes are vulnerable enough to begin with. Without having proper instruction, I would run the risk of doing more damage than good. The St Croix SCUBA course was offered in one-day or taken in two sessions which was most convenient for our group. Our first session involved a brief lecture on the history of the invasion and the biological facts about lionfish – then we got into the pool with our gear on and practiced hitting targets with both spear guns and poles (I prefer the pole method). I’m so glad I got to practice in the calm of the pool. It gave me the relaxed environment I needed to get comfortable with the equipment and a non-moving target.

 

Simeon demonstrates the weapons we’ll use for our expedition

 

Scuba gear for lionfish hunting course
All geared up and ready to go!

For our next session, we headed out on the boat to a reef on the West End of St Croix that Simeon guaranteed would have plenty of live targets. And, scary but true, he didn’t disappoint us. We did two tanks on that one spot and the lionfish were plentiful. I think everyone in our group speared at least two. Not an easy task! While lionfish remain fairly still at first, they are sneaky and as soon as you take a shot – and miss – they jump and hide in deeper holes. Still, I got one and was wildly satisfied at being a new hunter, much to my surprise.

Lionfish Hunters St Croix
Lionfish can run, but they can’t hide from this group of Certified Hunters. Thanks Simeon and S.C.U.B.A.

Our fearless leader Simeon Tolar. Image courtesy St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures aka SCUBA

Scuba Divers and researchers in locations throughout the Eastern Seaboard and the Caribbean are getting involved and coming up with some innovative ways at battling the invasive lionfish problem…

shark makes a meal of a lionfish in Roatan Marine Park in 2010 Honduras
Park officials and Divers in Honduras are attempting to train reef sharks to prey on lionfish and it sure seems to be working.

Some locales like the Florida Keys are adding lionfish to the menu and say they are quite tasty. Eco-conscious restaurateurs are doing the right thing by paying top-dollar for lionfish meat and forgoing Grouper on their menus (we need the grouper to eat the lionfish or eventually there will be no fish for you!).  Unfortunately, in the USVI, our lionfish have tested positive for Ciguatera, so it is not advisable to eat them.  Ciguatera is a foodborne illness caused by eating carnivorous, predatory reef fishes that have been contaminated with toxins. The toxins are originally produced by microscopic dinoflagellates  that attach to corals, algae and seaweed in tropical and subtropical waters. Smaller, herbivorous fish eat the dinoflagellates and then the little fish are eaten by the larger carnivorous fish (like lionfish). By ingesting multiple infected fishes, the predatory fish accumulate the toxin in high levels in their flesh. When these fish are consumed by humans, they pass along the ciguatera toxin in levels high enough to cause gastrointestinal and neurological effects that can be misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis. Nasty stuff. Currently, there are no known treatments or antidotes. Most people eventually recover on their own but symptoms can last for weeks to a year with some long-term cases lasting as long as 20 years.  For more information visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ciguatera

 

COREHere in the USVI and on St Croix Scuba divers are taking matters into their own hand with groups like The CORE Foundation The Caribbean Lionfish Response Program is unique proactive program designed to keep the invasion of the Indo-Pacific Lionfish from destroying our sea life, corals and reefs. The CLRP is collaborate effort comprised of Dive Shops donating boats at reduced rates, volunteer divers donating their time and money and Commercial Fishermen whose eyes and efforts throughout the waters of the Caribbean are invaluable. All these components are working together towards one common goal, keeping the Caribbean Lionfish Free.  

The only good Lionfish, is a dead Lionfish! Image courtesy St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures aka SCUBA

 

Filed Under: coral reef, Featured, Island Life, lionfish, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Scuba

My Absolutely Bio-rific Week

August 26, 2011 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

Last week I took the plunge and conquered my fears and after 10 years of SCUBA diving, I experienced a night dive.  What drew me in finally was the possibility of witnessing the coral spawning.  I’m still not sure if I saw it, but what I did experience was something surreal and out of this world … the nighttime, magical world of bioluminescence.

Perhaps its that I watch too much “Shark Week” and have a healthy fear of the dark/unknown, but diving at night where all I can see is within the small field of light emanating from my flashlight didn’t appeal to me.  In fact, it invoked a bit of terror and anxiety.  I’ve been boating at night with halogens glowing off the stern and saw that the small fish are attracted to the light and the bigger fish (aka predators) lurk just outside. Watching. Waiting.  F-R-E-A-K-S me out.  But, I am all about conquering (most) fears and with the added lure of coral spawning, I decided it was now or never.

Spawning Brain Coral
Spawning Brain Coral

Coral reefs are home to more than 25% of all marine life found on earth.  Many reefs can be aged at 5,000 to 10,000 years old! The critters who inhabit the coral reef ecosystem in turn are eaten by larger predators who visit for a meal.  Reefs also play an important role in the symbiotic relationship with coastal seagrasses which filter runoff and feed seaturtles and other marine life.  The  predatory fish that rely on the reefs are consumed by a huge portion of the human population. These are just a few reasons that corals are a critical part of our ocean environment.  And thus, the annual spawning is not only exciting but crucial to its survival. [click here for more information on coral]

So, I guess you could say they had me at “coral spawning”.  I posted a shout out on Facebook to my local friends that dive and in the end coerced a couple to join me (thanks Jerry & Chris for not making me face the dark alone!!).  We headed out that Friday night with St Croix Ultimate Blue Water Adventures aboard their boat Reliance and headed for “Blue Chute”, a dive site just outside of Christiansted harbor.  Keeping us safe and entertained was the dynamic duo of Captain Jon & dive master Lauren.  And then we waited. For the sun to go down. Eek!! When I finally rolled off the boat into to the inky dark ocean I was in search of coral spawn, but what stole the show that night were the underwater fireworks.

St Croix Ultimate Blue Water Adventures SCUBA Reliance
SCUBA’s Reliance

It wasn’t the first time I’d experienced marine bioluminescence.  In the 90’s I was an educator at the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, CT where I taught classes ranging from Shark Behavior to Jellyfish to Marine Conservation and crewed on the Marine Life Study cruises.  In one of our classrooms, we had a small bag of dinoflagellates that we kept in the refrigerator.  We would turn out the lights and shake them up to the “oohs” and “aahs” of the elementary school kids.  On a trip to St Maarten in 1994, I’d seen a little glow while swimming at night.  And at the beginning of this bio-rific week I got to experience one of only a handful of bays in the entire world that light up like a glow stick, the phosphorescent Bio Bay in Vieques aka Mosquito Bay.  While sitting in the clear canoes you can actually see fish swimming by, their bodies illuminated by the tiny dinoflagellates that luminesce when disturbed by motion.  But I’m not going to lie, the night dive was the grand finale of my “bio week”.

Vieques Bio Bay Clear Canoes
Vieques Adventure Co Clear Canoes on Bio Bay

I’ll admit it, I never expected what I saw.  In fact, when a friend told me that we would turn our lights off during part of the dive I said “Hell no!”.  Then when Lauren mentioned it as part of the dive brief, I thought “Ok you do that… I’m keeping mine on!”  But once I was below and focused on the critters of the night, I started to relax.  About a half-hour into our dive it happened… I saw lights starting to go out.  I didn’t hold my breath (that’s a no-no in diving) but I wanted to as I clicked my torch off.  It took a minute (what seemed like an eternity) for my eyes to adjust and THEN… magic.  Dive Master Lauren described it best when we surfaced – it was like the night scene in the forest from Avatar. No lie.  It looked just like the illustration below.  I can still see the water all around us twinkling like a million little stars.  It was like I was a constellation sitting in the middle of the milky way.  Suspended all around us were glowing “Strings of Pearls”.  These are actually Ostracods which are sesame-seed-sized crustaceans that live on the reef.  The males, when courting, put on a dazzling light show to attract females and it looks like little strings of pearls (thus the obvious name).  The reef itself was also brightly lit with the glowing eyes and bodies of other tiny creatures and floating particles.  I thought to myself, why did we even bother with the flashlights?! I can see just fine!

Avatar's Bioluminescent Forest
Avatar’s Bioluminescent Forest

All-in-all it was a spectacular end to an exciting week.  One that left me smugly satisfied that I am not just a visitor to these incredible islands – I live here and am appreciative of that every day.  And while I may never experience quite that dramatic of a dive again – I’m certainly hooked on night diving now.  Next stop, the Frederiksted Pier at night.  I hear there’s quite the after-hours party going on there.

If you would like to try a night dive – or maybe you’re inspired to try your very first SCUBA dive we highly recommend our friends at St Croix Ultimate Blue Water Adventures or for diving at the Frederiksted Pier (an easy shore dive) contact our friends at N2 The Blue in Frederiksted.  Both shops also offer West End wreck dives, as well as other great dive sites.

Filed Under: Eco-friendly, Eco-Tour, Featured, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Night Dive, Scuba

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