SEA REPORT: CURRENT March - April 2010 Newsletter (Note: Large file)


SEA submits comments on Diageo CZM permit (March 2009). At Diageo’s request, several SEA representatives met with Dan Kirby, Diageo VP, in mid December 2008. SEA was pleased to see the many environmentally friendly features incorporated into the distillery design. One issue of concern, however, is how Diageo’s power needs will be met. That continues to be one of SEA's major concerns with the project. SEA has submitted comments to CZM on Diageo's EAR, identifying this and a number of other issues to be considered by CZM during the permit process.

Major CZM permit for Robin Bay development up for review and comment. This would be a big one!
SEA has received the EAR and supporting documents for the Seven Hills Beach Resort & Casino planned for Robin Bay on the south shore located midway between the Divi hotel and casino and Great Pond. The application is for an 870 room hotel resort plus 746 condo/villas/single family homes, 56 time share villas, a casino, water park and 18 hole golf course. SEA understands that comments are due to CZM by April 2, 2009. Look for SEA's comments here and on the Archives page as the deadline approaches.

CZM approves William and Punch development permit. The William and Punch development proposal to include a major resort, casino, golf course, marina and upscale housing was approved by the Coastal Zone Management Commission on January 14, 2009. The approval included a list of 36 permit conditions. The actual permit and conditions are not available at this time. However, the motion that was approved referenced the conditions recommended by CZM staff, with the exception of condition #17, which was amended to expand the length of beach to be maintained. DPNR also issued a Coastal Zone Water Quality Review and Certification.

The CZM staff recommendations and the water quality review include some environmental “wins” and a few losses. Both documents can be accessed through the links below.

CZM staff recommendations, January 14, 2009. The conditions in these recommendations were referenced in the CZM Commission's motion to approve the project permit, with the exception of #17 which was amended to lengthen the amount of beach to be maintained..
Coastal Zone Water Quality Review and Certification for William and Punch project, January 14, 2009.
Also see our special William and Punch page, with links to SEA's testimony and related documents!

Lionfish Alert! The DPNR Division of Fish and Wildlife has issued a Lionfish alert. Their site (see link above) shows pictures of the lionfish, describes why they are damaging, and includes forms for reporting lionfish sightings. Lionfish are an invasive species not native to the Caribbean. They are aggressive feeders, and can decimate native fish populations. The first one in St. Croix waters was recently sighted near the Frederiksted pier.

SEA comments on the VI Zoning Code (see letter) in December 2008. DPNR has hired a team of consultants to assess the VI zoning code. The consultants interviewed many people in the Territory as part of their research, including two representatives from SEA. SEA then followed up with a letter emphasizing three key points the Board felt were most important. SEA appreciates being included in this process, and the opportunity to comment.

Virgin Islands Renewable Energy Organization (VIREO) position paper on renewable energy (September 2008). SEA was instrumental in the formation of VIREO and assited in preparation of this position paper that addresses the alternative power production choices facing the Water and Power Authority (WAPA).






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