Embedded Files
Upcoming meetings:
The next MBA board meeting will be this Friday August 15 at 9:00AM at Shed 4 (calendar).
According to the VI Legislature’s FY 2026 budget calendar, MBA’s budget hearing will then be held the following Monday August 18 at 1:00PM.
Working group progress:
We have sent the following letter to VI Senators and DPNR leaders to introduce them to our group:
As Virgin Islanders and frequent beachgoers, we are a volunteer group of Magens Bay supporters called “Friends of Fairchild at Magens Bay”. Our mission is to protect, preserve and promote the terrestrial and marine resources of Magens Bay, the larger portion of which was gifted to the people of the Virgin Islands in perpetuity by Arthur S. Fairchild. As such, we would like to share some of our specific interests and goals.
Community access & awareness:
Safeguarding Magens Bay as a community beach, while balancing the demands of being a tourist destination.
Facilitating field trips for all St Thomas students to the beach and arboretum for science & history education and water safety.
Enabling access & events for seniors and community interest groups.
Advising on and raising awareness of ADA-compliant facilities and disability access issues.
Developing a symbiotic relationship with the MBA and increasing transparency to keep the community informed of Magens operations and able to provide meaningful input.
Environmental sustainability:
Supporting research & environmental impact assessments to enable informed decisions.
Protecting the bay, mangroves, and park ecosystem from harmful effects, such as those from overcrowding, boating & motorized watercrafts, and runoff from nearby properties. We are particularly concerned about increased commercialization and proposals to attract more overnight yachts.
Reducing beach pollution through education, cleanups, and partnerships with other organizations (e.g., recycling).
Your support and partnerships between government agencies, private organizations, and the general community are essential for ensuring that Magens Bay remains a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable treasure. You can read our position paper at https://www.friendsmagens.org/about-us/advocacy and learn more about us at https://www.friendsmagens.org/about-us.
Thank you for your attention.
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