The Southgate Coastal Reserve was created in 1999 and expanded in 2000 through two generous gifts from an anonymous donor with a keen interest in birding and education.

The Reserve is located a little over 3 miles east of Christiansted, just north of East End Road. It totals 100 acres and encompasses a coastal salt pond, mangrove forest, beach forest and upland grassland. The pond and surrounding wetlands provide habitat for many resident and migrant birds including several species classified as threatened or endangered. Three species of sea turtles nest on the beach berm - all are classified as threatened or endangered.

SEA has carefully assessed the site's habitats and community support for development of the site for bird watching, education and recreation activities. We are currently in the process of designing an environmentally sensitive and sustainable Reserve Center, bird blinds, walking trails and other infrastructure improvements. Landscaping plans will focus on improving and expanding habitat for wildlife. After years of planning and anticipation we are very excited that our plans will soon become a reality.