Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

St. Croix's Natural Resources

St. Croix is the easternmost and southernmost of the Virgin islands. It has extensive tropical beaches and waters used for swimming, scuba diving and fishing, and supports a large tourist industry as well as a resident population. St. Croix is home to many unusual ecosystems and wildlife species, including coral reefs. Though human development is causing pollution, it is still home to beautiful natural resources.

Coral Reefs
- The waters surrounding St. Croix are home to coral reefs. Coral reefs are created by many tiny living organisms called coral polyps. These jellyfish-like creatures excrete calcium carbonate which solidifies to form the hard structure of the reefs. Coral reefs form over thousands of years of accumulation of calcium carbonate and the complex ecology that develops around them. St. Croix's reefs protect its shorelines, attract millions of tourists each year and support local fisherman and the ecosystems around them. Pollution caused by humans is their largest threat.
Forests and Grasslands
- Blooming hibiscus, just one species found on St. Croix.
  
  St. Croix has complex subtropical forests defined by canopies created by interlocking tree branches. They are a source of recreation, natural products and climate moderation as well as home to diverse wildlife. Most primary forests were cleared by the 20th century, and human-made roads and developments have caused extensive deforestation. Grasslands are also found throughout the island, home to more types of shrubs, hedges, cactuses and wildlife. Many of these areas are protected by island law.
Beaches and Water
- St. Croix's coastline has miles of beaches and bays.
  
  The beaches of St. Croix are its most valuable natural resources, supporting local marine and wildlife ecosystems as well as a major tourist industry. Miles of beaches and bays surround the island, home to small ecosystems like salt ponds and tropical sea grass beds. Year-round swimming is enjoyed by natives and tourists. Endangered animals like sea turtles thrive in these environments, which provide food for both young and adult turtles and nesting grounds for eggs.
Pollution
- Pollution has become a major problem on the island. Septic systems and poor or malfunctioning drainage systems pollute both shorelines and soil. Runoff due to deforestation and development is causing erosion and warping the natural flow of groundwater. Virgin Island legislation created the Coastal Zone Management in 1978, aiming to protect and restore coast regions on the island. Federal and territorial environmental agencies also work on the island to protect its coastal regions as well as other natural resources.

Nature