SVGEF September newsletter
Dear Supporters,
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has seen a significant loss of income and a simultaneous increase in economic hardship. The SVGEF has, however, continued to support local environmental initiatives which fortunately were able to continue during these times.
The positive impact of the 2017 Turtle protection legislation, combined with less disturbance of marine life due to Covid, has contributed to substantive increases in sea turtle sightings. Turtles are now being seen in bays (such as Canash Bay, Admiralty Bay and Great Head Bay), both on the mainland and in the Grenadines, for the first time in 40 years.
The SVGEF lent support to community-led turtle patrols in Union Island and on the Windward coast of St. Vincent, as well as to beach clean ups on turtle nesting beaches.
In addition we have continued with programs supporting the investment in biodiversity, such as the Fauna and Flora ‘Chatham Ridge to Reef’ project and the newly launched EPIC sea bird monitoring project. The SVGEF also worked with the Ministry of Agriculture to provide protective gear to local food distributors, farmers and fishers.
We encourage our donors from past years to continue to support our efforts. If the Covid pandemic has taught us anything it is that the importance of the environment and the ongoing need to protect it and our common humanity.
Best wishes,
Louise Mitchell, Executive Director