DPNR News Roundup

Mark Dworkin
2 minutes ago
3 min read

DPNR News Roundup

St. Croix Times Staff

Open Call for Artists!

Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriel of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) announced that the Division of Libraries, Archives & Museums (DLAM) invites USVI artists, creatives and storytellers to submit works that explore the journey of Virgin Islanders self-identity from emancipation to the current drafting of a people-centric constitution.

Tides of Freedom: Legacies of Resistance from the USVI to the USA, is a multi-disciplinary visual art exhibition that explores the trans-Atlantic and inter-generational struggle for Black liberation through the lens of two pivotal emancipation events: The July 3, 1848, Emancipation Uprising in St. Croix Danish West Indies (now U.S. Virgin Islands), and Juneteenth (June 19, 1865) in Texas, United States. Although there may be an ocean separating people of African descent in the mainland and USVI, there are deep ties connecting both communities.

The exhibition asks artists to examine how Virgin Islanders have envisioned self-determination and self-governance in the past. Additionally, artists should examine how this has been expressed through our songs, art, poetry, and dance. The exhibition offers an opportunity for contemporary artists and cultural producers to reflect on those legacies and reimagine them for our present moment and future.

Artist Call Opens: May 14, 2025

Proposal Submittal Deadline: May 30, 2025

Artwork Drop-off: June 20, 2025

Exhibition Opening Night: June 27, 2025 at Fort Frederik Museum

For more specific information visit the DPNR website.

Submit to: Monica Marin, Territorial Curator at monica.marin@dpnr.vi.gov or call Fort Frederik Museum at 340-772-2021.

Warning on Handling

Wild-Caught Animals

DPNR’s Division of Fish & Wildlife is urging the public to take extra care when handling or preparing wild-caught animals, including free-roaming domestic animals like goats, and invasive species such as white-tailed deer and red-tailed boas.

Eating wild meat can increase the risk of disease that can spread from animals to humans (zoonotic diseases). Predators like the red-tailed boa and mongoose often feed on rats, which are known to carry harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Leptospira. Recent testing by the CDC across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St, John found these bacteria are common in many wild mammals in the Territory. However, there were no signs of rabies or bird flu found at this time.

Wild animals can carry germs that may not be visible to the naked eye. That is why any processing of wild game or fish should be done safely and legally. A permit or certification from DPNR is required to manage wildlife through our Wildlife Control Operators and Removal Agents programs.

To learn more or apply for a permit contact the Division of Fish & Wildlife at 340-773-1082 or email: DFWelectronic@usvi. onmicrosoft.com.

DPNR Observes

Safe Boating Week

DPNR’s Division of Environmental Enforcement urges all boaters to observe safe boating as we begin the summer boating season. The kick-off week May 18 - 24th aims to set the stage for safe and responsible boating practices throughout the Territory during the boating season.

The past year has brought on boating incidents that remind the public to wear life jackets and take preventive measures that can protect lives when out on the water.

Throughout the week, DPNR enforcement officers will be conducting free vessel safety checks, distributing educational materials, and engaging with the community at marinas and boat ramps across the Territory.

Boaters are also reminded to: