Tag: projects

Residents and visitors are invited to join “Shark and Ray Discovery Day,” a Shark Week 2026 community event dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of sharks and rays and highlighting the local efforts underway to protect these vital marine species.

The event is organized by the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten and will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Simpson Bay Fish Market. Shark and Ray Discovery Day brings together local conservation organizations, scientific researchers, local fishers, and community groups with an interest in safeguarding Sint Maarten’s marine environment.

A highlight of the day will be free lagoon boat tours departing every 30 minutes. These tours offer participants a unique perspective on the lagoon ecosystem and its connection to the island’s biodiversity. Safety regulations will apply, and as space on each tour is limited, advance registration is strongly encouraged via WhatsApp message at +1 (721) 581-6365 or email to info@naturefoundationsxm.org. Event activities are weather-dependent.

Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to visit educational booths, meet conservation professionals, learn about ongoing research and protection initiatives, and discover the important role sharks and rays play in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems.

Designed for all ages, the event will feature interactive activities, games, and opportunities to win prizes while learning about the fascinating species that inhabit Caribbean waters. Visitors are welcome to attend at any time during the event and explore the exhibits at their own pace.

“Sharks and rays are among the ocean’s most important species, helping to maintain balanced and healthy marine ecosystems,” said a representative of the Nature Foundation. “However, many populations around the world face increasing pressures from overfishing, habitat degradation, and other human activities.”

The organizers encourage families, students, residents, and visitors alike to attend and take part in this celebration of marine life and conservation during Shark Week.

The initiative is part of the MENAA (Marine Elasmobranch Nursery Area Advocacy) project at the Nature Foundation. MENAA seeks to form a foundation for the success of Sint Maarten’s marine and coastal area, particularly for sharks and rays. Research shows local waters serve as a nursery for species like tiger sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and spotted eagle rays. These animals are crucial for reef health and fishery stability but remain threatened by poaching and ghost nets, despite local protections. Learn more at https://naturefoundationsxm.org/menaa.

MENAA is funded by BESTLIFE2030 (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas), a granting mechanism focusing on preserving and restoring biodiversity in the EU’s outermost regions (ORs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), which host rich biodiversity but also face significant climate change threats.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The Nature Foundation Sint Maarten and the Ministry of Justice have launched the Protection through Biosecurity Project: A Strategic Initiative for Sint Maarten aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to prevent the introduction of invasive species, combat illegal wildlife trade, and improve the implementation of international biodiversity agreements, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The project also seeks to strengthen coordination among key stakeholders involved in protecting Sint Maarten’s borders and natural environment.

“Invasive species and illegal wildlife trade are increasingly putting our marine life and local communities at risk. For me, protecting our borders also means protecting our natural environment from threats that can have lasting consequences for our island. This initiative reflects our commitment to protecting the very ecosystems and natural resources that we all depend on, ” said Minister of Justice, Nathalie Tackling.

Some of the most common species that are imported and exported from Sint Maarten that fall on the CITES lists include queen conch, caviar, and several bird species. The Convention covers more than 36,000 species worldwide making enforcement a difficult and specialized task. Small developed islands like Sint Maarten act as a hub for the region resulting in high volumes of imported goods and creating significant enforcement challenges for local officers.

“Biosecurity is about protecting Sint Maarten’s people, economy, and natural resources from risks that often go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. By strengthening CITES implementation and improving coordination between local and regional stakeholders, we are investing in a more resilient future for the island,” said the Nature Foundation’s Director, Leslie Hickerson.

A key element of this 18-month project will be the introduction of a dedicated Biosecurity Officer within the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten. This officer will work closely with local and regional enforcement agencies by providing technical support, coordinating training opportunities, and strengthening regional actions. Through this enhanced support, the project seeks to improve detection, prevention, and response efforts while building long-term capacity for biodiversity protection.

Protection through Biosecurity is funded by BESTLIFE2030 (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas), a granting mechanism focusing on preserving and restoring biodiversity in the EU’s outermost regions (ORs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), which host rich biodiversity but also face significant climate change threats.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The Nature Foundation Sint Maarten, a local environmental conservation non-profit, was among a small group of delegates at the high-level OCTA Ministerial Conference on April 11 in Aruba, to present on the need for increased, long-term biodiversity funding across Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs). Part of the 21st OCTs-EU Forum, the occasion allowed beneficiaries of the BESTLIFE2030 Programme to communicate directly with top-ranking ministers and regional authorities of OCTs, the European Commission, Member States, and regional stakeholders.

Project Manager Sabrine Brismeur, a resident of Saint-Martinois parentage, represented the Nature Foundation alongside three other program beneficiaries from Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Eustatius, along with IUCN BESTLIFE2030 coordination team. Over the course of an hour, the group made the case for why the EU must continue to scale up investment in biodiversity initiatives in the OCTs, drawing on their direct experience implementing various projects.

The invitation also served as an opportunity for the Nature Foundation to share its experience and feedback on BESTLIFE2030 directly with its coordinators. EU-funded programs like BESTLIFE2030, while incredibly valuable, are noted for their rigorous administration and reporting requirements, which can be difficult for small, capacity-strained organizations to meet. Communication and relationships between on-the-ground practitioners and high-level grant administrators are essential to improving the conditions and outcomes of successful projects.

“These sorts of programs are critical to our work on Sint Maarten and allow us to carry out projects that are innovative, targeted, or long overdue,” said Brismeur. “Funding for biodiversity conservation among our islands is low, especially for extremely small NGOs like the Nature Foundation — which does not benefit from sustainability or nature fees, head taxes, environmental fines, or even nature park entry tickets, since we are the only island in the Dutch Caribbean without a terrestrial park.”

Programs including BESTLIFE2030 — a grantmaking mechanism focused on preserving and restoring biodiversity in the EU’s outermost regions (ORs) and OCTs — are funded by the EU to advance shared global biodiversity commitments. Through the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Sint Maarten is party to various treaties including the Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) Protocol and the 30×30 targets of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

“Biodiversity conservation is not just about wildlife itself, but about how species and ecosystems help sustain economies, generate savings, feed populations, improve health, protect infrastructure, and root culture,” said Brismeur. “For example, our project ties together the capacity of sustainable fisheries and elasmobranchs – sharks and rays – to provide long-term benefits for our local fishers.”

The Nature Foundation would like to sincerely thank the coordinators of IUCN BESTLIFE2030 Programme and OCTA for the invitation and opportunity, as well as the policymakers, politicians, and civil servants present in the room for listening and considering the presentation.

The Nature Foundation’s BESTLIFE2030 project, MENAA (Marine Elasmobranch Nursery Area Advocacy), seeks to build a foundation for the long-term success of Sint Maarten’s marine and coastal areas, particularly for sharks and rays. Research shows that local waters serve as a nursery for species including tiger sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and spotted eagle rays. These animals are crucial for reef health and fishery stability but remain threatened by poaching and ghost nets, despite existing local protections.

The Nature Foundation representative was joined by a regional delegation.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

A handful of local fishermen on Sint Maarten are starting the new year in 2026 with new boat equipment and fishing gear. The non-profit Nature Foundation Sint Maarten is pleased to announce that four fishermen recently completed a workshop series designed to support efforts towards sustainable local fishing. As thanks for their time and commitment, each graduate received a one-time purchase order for equipment or services of their choice.

The compensation program began in August 2025 with a welcome dinner, followed by three workshops, gear training, and ongoing collaboration throughout the year. Developed jointly by the Nature Foundation and local fishers, the sessions focused on practical tools and knowledge exchange. Topics included sustainable fishing practices, responsible use of Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs), and creating a cultural archive of Sint Maarten’s fishing heritage. A special emphasis was placed on the importance of sharks and rays to the marine ecosystem, and ways to help prevent negative interactions with them. Regional fisheries experts from Anguilla and Statia also joined the workshop as guest speakers.

“Marine conservation and fisheries are often pitted against one another, but you can’t have one without the other. Healthy oceans support fish stocks and fishers’ livelihoods, and their knowledge and involvement are essential to caring for our marine resources,” said Nadya de Wolf, Marine Policy and Outreach Fellow. “We’re grateful to the fishers who allowed us to show our support and respect for the fishing community and have been working with us. This program is just a first step, and we hope it opens new doors.”

Following the graduation, fishermen received up to USD 1,500 worth of pre-approved equipment to support their fishing efforts.

After completing the program, participants could request up to USD 1,500 in pre-approved equipment. Items included fishfinders, marine machinery, and wire rolls for fish pots. Each fisherman also received a custom 3D-printed gauge to measure legal and recommended sizes for queen conch and Caribbean spiny lobster to help ensure sustainable harvests.

The Nature Foundation is planning a second round of workshops and funding opportunities in 2026. Small bonuses will reward innovative practices, such as adding “escape slots” to fish traps. Recruitment will again take place through flyers, word-of-mouth, and visits to the Simpson Bay Fish Market and Great Bay harbor. Interested individuals should reach out to the Project Manager at sabrine@naturefoundationsxm.org or send a WhatsApp message to +1 (721) 581-6365 to determine their eligibility.

The initiative is part of the MENAA (Marine Elasmobranch Nursery Area Advocacy) project at the Nature Foundation. MENAA seeks to form a foundation for the success of Sint Maarten’s marine and coastal area, particularly for sharks and rays. Research shows local waters serve as a nursery for species like tiger sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and spotted eagle rays. These animals are crucial for reef health and fishery stability but remain threatened by poaching and ghost nets, despite local protections.

A fisherman participating in the heritage-focused workshop puts a sticky note with his knowledge on one of the thematic area posters.

MENAA is funded by BESTLIFE2030 (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas), a granting mechanism focusing on preserving and restoring biodiversity in the EU’s outermost regions (ORs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), which host rich biodiversity but also face significant climate change threats.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The St. Maarten Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) 2026 is proud to announce its first time actively partnering with a campaign contributing to island nature and sustainability. The 2026 campaign of choice will be the Nature Foundation’s “From Reef to Runway” program, a new initiative dedicated to reducing the removal and export of conch shells, corals, and other marine items from Sint Maarten.

Per year, the Nature Foundation assists in returning 6.000 kg of marine life to sea. This volume is only the intercepted part of the shells and coral “souvenirs” taken by visitors not realizing this practice is forbidden until they reach luggage check at Princess Juliana International Airport.

This campaign aims to change that through clear, accessible, and engaging education. “From Reef to Runway” focuses on protecting the island’s fragile marine ecosystem, assets that are essential to reef health, coastal protection, biodiversity, and the long-term strength of the tourism and hospitality sectors. As a key supporter, the SMART tradeshow, where key industry stakeholders will come together for three days of networking, will help amplify the campaign’s message across the regional and international tourism industry, advancing responsible tourism and strengthening compliance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) throughout the destination.

The initiative will deploy multilingual, visitor-friendly visual messaging across the tourism and marine sectors. Infographics, posters, and flyers will be prominently displayed in hotels, marinas, tour desks, and other visitor touchpoints to ensure broad visibility.

Local tour operators, dive shops, and maritime stakeholders will play an active role by reinforcing the campaign’s guidelines during excursions. This includes assisting in the repatriation of confiscated shells during snorkeling and diving activities, turning educational moments into direct conservation impact.

The campaign is supported by leading industry partners, including the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), Sint Maarten Maritime Trade Association (SMMTA), Aquamania Adventures and Heineken Regatta. SMART’s involvement marks a significant milestone in uniting regional tourism stakeholders behind the protection of Sint Maarten’s natural environment.

SMART 2026 will be held from June 22nd – June 26th, bringing together hospitality professionals, tour operators, travel planners for business appointments and destination showcases. Co-organized by the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA), and L’Office de Tourisme de Saint-Martin, SMART serves as a hub for regional collaboration and product development, strengthening the competitive position of the island and the wider Caribbean.

Participants interested in attending SMART can register through the official event portal, where buyers, suppliers, and media representatives will find tailored registration options. Early sign-ups are encouraged, as space for scheduled appointments and exhibition opportunities is limited. To secure a place, interested companies and organizations can email office@shta.com, call +1 (721) 542-0108 or visit shta.com/SMART. The site also includes information on car rental benefits, regional air travel discounts, program updates and enrollment details for prospective participants.

Read the full interview from the IUCN here.

MENAA is funded by BESTLIFE2030 (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas), a granting mechanism focusing on preserving and restoring biodiversity in the EU’s outermost regions (ORs) and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), which host rich biodiversity but also face significant climate change threats.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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