Friends of Virgin Islands National Park believes deeply that the natural and cultural resources found in and around the Caneel Bay property should be protected and preserved so that future generations will come to know and love them as we do today.

We believe management of Caneel Bay must embrace the role of caring steward of these lands and recognize that there are significant natural and cultural resources on this property that are wholly unique and not found anywhere else. Actions in support of this would include:

• Allowing for community access to the property and beaches as well as support of visitor outreach and education.

• Respect for, and preservation of, the important historic archaeology sites on the property. The stories that inform the place include Taino settlements from as early as 400BC, and the role of the Durloo Plantation and the battle at Turtle Point during the 1733 Akwamu Slave Rebellion.

• A commitment to environmental and conservation protections including the safeguarding of critical sea turtle nesting beaches, the caretaking of coral ecosystems that are home to uncommon corals like the Blue Crust Coral, the protection of the bird population that includes the rare Black Crowned Night Heron, the management of boat access in anchor-less waters, and the safe removal of any contaminated materials that may be found on the site.

• An understanding that island resources and infrastructure are overburdened so any development needs to be self sustaining including utilities, waste management, employee housing and parking.