In addition to their crime-fighting efforts in the Virgin Islands, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) Marine Unit is taking significant steps under its community policing mandate by launching a community initiative. Photo: Internet source

The initiative, called the Marine Awareness Campaign, is a collaboration with the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK). It focuses on two key messages: for locals, “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future,” and for visitors, “Keeping Paradise the Way You Found It.” Photo: Facebook

The initiative, called the Marine Awareness Campaign Journey, is a collaboration with the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK). It focuses on two key messages: for locals, “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future,” and for visitors, “Keeping Paradise the Way You Found It.”

As part of this campaign, the Marine Unit and ARK will disseminate crucial information about marine life and its protection, outline the do’s and don’ts according to the laws of the Virgin Islands, and provide emergency contact guidance for marine-related incidents.

'The sea sustains us in countless ways'

In a Facebook post, Officer D. Billingy of the Marine Unit stated,  “The sea sustains us in countless ways - as a source of livelihood, culture, and natural beauty. By educating our community and visitors, we ensure that this treasure is protected not just for today, but for generations to come.”

The Marine Awareness Campaign, led by ARK, will include community engagement activities, educational materials, and visual campaigns aimed at promoting respect for and stewardship of the Virgin Islands’ marine environment.

Officer K. Emmanuel emphasised the importance of collaboration in this initiative, saying,“Partnerships are vital in safeguarding our natural heritage. Through our work with ARK, the RVIPF Marine Unit is proud to strengthen ties with the community and promote sustainable practices that protect our waters.”

The RVIPF, along with the Marine Unit, encourages the public to support this initiative by adhering to marine laws, respecting wildlife, and engaging in responsible marine activities.