Assistant Environment Officer Ministry of Natural Resources & Labour Mr. Austin Freeman, Co-owner of Minnie’s Plants and Landscaping Mr. Steven Steer, Staff Member of Minnie’s Plants and Landscaping Mr. Denesh Ramasay. Photo: GIS/Lynda Varlack

Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull (R2) applauded the tree planting initiative and stressed the need to conserve the natural, precious assets of the Virgin Islands that comprise of animals, plants and other species. Photo: VINO/File

The initiative was undertaken by Representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and Minnie’s Plants and Landscaping, where the Sea Grape seedlings were planted as part of a reforestation exercise.

Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull (R2) applauded the tree planting initiative and stressed the need to conserve the natural, precious assets of the Virgin Islands that comprise of animals, plants and other species.

 “Climate change is a global issue that affects areas that are located in tropical zones of the world the most. The state of our environment is falling day by day due to pollution and global warming. We must celebrate environment-friendly developments for a better future,” he said.

Seadlings expected to positively impact the island 

Meanwhile, Assistant Secretary in the Ministry, Ms. Lynda Varlack said the tree planting exercise would positively affect Long Bay Beef Island, “We are very pleased to have Minnie's Plants and Landscaping partnering with us on this activity,” she said.

“Not only have they graciously agreed to donate six 3-gallon sized trees to this effort, but they were on site to facilitate the planting of the trees so the trees can have the best chance of survival,” she added.

The tree planting exercise will serve as a test to observe how the Sea Grape seedlings will adjust in the near future to the change of environment.

They will be regularly watered and monitored for a period of three months by Beach Wardens to ensure that they successfully acclimate to their new environment.