On May 1, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service welcomes its newest addition to the National Wildlife Refuge System on the of Vieques, Puerto Rico.
The Vieques National Wildlife Refuge comprises 3,100 acres on the western end of the and contains several ecologically distinct habitats including beaches, coastal lagoons, mangrove wetlands, and upland forested areas. The marine environment surrounding the refuge contains coral reefs and sea grass beds. The refuge and its surrounding waters are home to at least four plants and 10 animals on the Federal endangered species list including the West Indian manatee, the brown pelican, and four species of sea turtles. In addition to its ecological value, the new refuge includes historical and archeological sites that will be protected under Service management.
"The western part of Vieques contains some of the best examples of sub-tropical forest in the Caribbean," said Sam Hamilton, Southeast Regional Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service. "The area contains unique resources that deserve to be protected for the enjoyment of the people of Vieques and all Americans. We are looking forward to working with the citizens of Vieques to protect these important environmental resources."
Since the first refuge was established in 1903, the National Wildlife Refuge System has grown to include more than 535 refuges and thousands of waterfowl production areas. At least one refuge is located in each of the 50 states, U.S. territories and insular areas. National wildlife refuges provide stopovers and destinations for millions of migratory birds, provide sanctuary for hundreds of endangered species, and support important recreational and commercial fisheries.
Every year, approximately 30 million people visit national wildlife refuges to participate in one or more of the six priority public uses encouraged on these lands; hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, interpretation, photography and environmental education. An economic study conducted in 1997 concluded that visitors spending at national wildlife refuges generate economic activity throughout the local economy.
The Service must consider wildlife first but will work with the citizens of Vieques to determine what priority public uses should be considered for the land. The Service will soon begin the planning process to determine what public uses are compatible with the management of the refuge. The participation of the public will be encouraged during the planning process to help guide the management programs of the refuge.
