Department of Environment & Fisheries - Welcome to BVI Department of Environment & Fisheries
Department of Environment & Fisheries
Ministry of Natural Resources & Labour, British Virgin Islands
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Newsflash
The Closed Season schedule in the Virgin Islands is as follows:- (During this time no person shall catch, sell, offer for sale or buy)
• Margate - January 1 to March 31
• Red Hind - January 1 to March 31 • Nassau Grouper - March 1 to May 31
• Turtles - April 1 to November 30
• Lobster - July 31 to October 31
• Conch - August 15 to October 31
• Whelk - August 15 to October 31
This is a conservation measure to ensure the long-term abundance of these important commercial fishery species.
FISHING LICENCE REQUIRED
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour is reminding the fishing community that commercial fishermen and pleasure fishermen are required by law to have a fishing licence which must be renewed annualy. Anyone found fishing without a licence will be prosecuted. Fishing licences can be obtained at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour for a fee.
For further information contact the Conservation and Fisheries Department at 468-3701 at extension 5555/5551 or 494-3429.
Welcome to BVI Department of Environment & Fisheries
Vision Statement
The Department of Environment & Fisheries envisions an environment that is “well-managed, protected and preserved to maintain the unique ecological features and natural beauty of the Virgin Islands; through a legal framework that promotes the rational, efficient and sustainable utilization of these resources in harmony with economic development, indigenous culture and recreation.
Mission
In 2003, the Department of Environment & Fisheries started a journey of evolution. It began with a retreat in which the staff of each Unit was able to reassess the Department as an organization, and its mandates. One fact quickly became apparent. Since its inception almost 20 years ago, the Department has grown exponentially in trying to address the ever-growing need for sound environmental and fisheries management in the VI. In response, the Department staff developed a new vision for the VI environment, and identified the need to restructure and reorganize to achieve improved functionality and implement the programmes necessary to achieve its vision.
Contact Information
Department of Environment and Fisheries
P. O. Box 3323, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands