DPNR Buys Mt. Welcome Plot Expands Altona Lagoon

M.A. Dworkin

St. Croix - Commissioner Jean-Pierre L.  Oriol of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) has announced the acquisition of Parcel 59 Mt. Welcome on St. Croix, securing 4.77 acres of shoreline property along Altona Lagoon for the people of the Virgin Islands.

The newly acquired property, located adjacent to the popular Altona Lagoon community park in Christiansted, will help expand public access to one of St. Croix’s most treasured natural areas.

“Altona Lagoon is a cherished destination where residents and visitors alike can enjoy the outdoors through hiking, walking, swimming, fishing, and other cultural and recreational activities,” said Commissioner Oriol. “This acquisition ensures that future generations will continue to have access to this special place, and we are grateful to Governor Bryan and his administration for their continued support of land conservation efforts throughout the Territory.”

Visitors to Altona Lagoon can access the property from the lagoon’s primary entrance off Mt. Welcome Road. The site features shaded areas overlooking the lagoon’s mangrove ecosystem, providing opportunities for recreation, nature appreciation, and wildlife observation.

Funding for the acquisition was provided through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate and Resilience Regional Challenge (CRRC) program, which awarded funding to the Virgin Islands in 2024 to support conservation, resilience, and public access projects.

or more information contact Director Kristina “Kitty” Edwards, of DPNR’s Territorial Parks and Protected Areas (TPPA) at: kristina.edwards@dpnr.vi.gov.