Sea Turtle Closed Season Takes Effect
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has announced the start of the annual closed season for sea turtles across the Territory. Protections are now active for Green and Hawksbill turtles, while complete moratoria remain for Leatherback and Loggerhead species. Officials urge fishers and residents to comply with conservation laws to protect local marine biodiversity.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is informing fishers, vendors and the general public that the Territory’s annual closed season for sea turtles is now in effect, the Department said in a government release. The closed season runs from 1–2 April and 7 April–30 November 2026 and applies to Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata).
Additionally, the Department reiterated that a full moratorium remains in place for Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) and Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtles. These protections are being enforced across the Territory and are intended to reduce human impacts during key breeding and nesting periods to support the recovery of vulnerable populations, the release stated.
For the purpose of enforcement, the Department clarified that “turtle” refers to the whole animal or any part of a turtle. During the closed season the Department said the following activities are strictly prohibited: taking, possessing, selling, transporting or otherwise harming protected turtles or any of their parts.
These restrictions apply to all persons, vessels, vehicles and premises in the Virgin Islands. Non-compliance may result in enforcement action under applicable laws. Director of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr. James, emphasised the importance of compliance, saying, “These measures are critical to protecting our vulnerable turtle populations and ensuring their recovery for future generations.
We urge everyone to respect the closed season and play their part in conserving our marine resources.” The Department credited the measures as part of long-term conservation goals for the Territory’s marine environment. Sea turtles play important roles in local marine ecosystems: Hawksbill turtles help maintain coral reef health by controlling sponge populations, and Green turtles graze on seagrass beds, supporting habitat quality for many species.
Both species face pressures from habitat loss, bycatch and illegal take, the Department noted, making the closed season an important management tool. Local fishers and vendors are asked to immediately cease any activities that would take, possess, sell or transport protected turtles or turtle parts during the closed season.
The Department advised that anyone who accidentally captures or encounters a turtle should take care to minimise harm and seek guidance on safe release procedures. Reports of injured or entangled turtles will be acted on so that appropriate assistance can be provided. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected violations to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force by calling 284-800-8477 (TIPS) or 284-368-9339.
The Department also provided media and public contacts for further information, including Information Officer Angela U. Burns at +1 284 468 9445 or aburns@gov.vg, and the Government switchboard at (284) 468-3701. The Department thanked the public for cooperating with the closed season and reminded residents that respecting these protections contributes to environmental sustainability and the long-term wellbeing of BVI fisheries and coastal environments.
The Department said it remains responsible for ensuring that food is safe and produced in an environmentally sustainable manner while supporting economic growth and social well-being.
Primary source: BVI Government