Coral reefs are the rain forests of the sea. They are also the foundation of important tourism and fisheries economies. However, it is estimated that two-thirds of the world' s coral reefs are seriously threatened, and that is why this meeting and initiative are so important. This is the third meeting of the Coral Reef Task Force. The MOU involves the establishment of a marine research and education laboratory in St. Croix with a consortium of universities.
All activities are open to the media.
Governor Turnbull, Secretary Babbitt, Dr. Baker, media board National Park Service Boats leaving from the Buccaneer Hotel dock for a trip to Salt River Bay showing reef ecosystems. A stop will be made, if possible, near the potential site of the marine research laboratory involving the University of the Virgin Islands, Rutgers University, the University of North Carolina - Wilmington and the University of South Carolina. The boats will proceed further toward Salt River Bay to a site within the proposed Salt River Marine Ecological Park and Preserve for a briefing with Secretary Babbitt and Governor Turnbull. Following the tour, boats will return to the hotel. Rep. Donna Christen-Christenson, Secretary Babbitt, DrBaker and others.