The St Eustatius Marine Park was created in 1996 and
extends around the entire island from the high water
line to 30m depth contour. The park covers an area of
27.5km2 and protects a variety of habitats, including
pristine coral reefs (drop off walls, volcanic ‘fingers’
and ‘bombs’, spur and groove systems), 18th
century shipwrecks and modern-day artificial reefs to
promote fishing and dive tourism (including a 100m cable-laying
ship).
Within the Park are two actively- managed Reserves in
which no fishing or anchoring is permitted to conserve
marine biodiversity, protect fish stocks and promote
sustainable tourism. In addition to regular mooring
maintenance (dive, snorkel and yacht sites), patrols
and research, the Marine Park works closely with three
local dive centres to ensure that diving practices minimise
impact on the reef.
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The Quill / Boven National Park is recognized internationally
and was pronounced the first official National Park
of the Netherlands Antilles in 1998. The park was created
to protect unique biodiversity and ensure sustainable
use by all stakeholders. This park of 5.4km2 consists
of two sub-sectors - the dormant volcano ‘The
Quill’ and ‘White Wall’, the limestone
formation located on the south side of the volcano –
and the ‘Boven’ area covering five hills
in the north of St Eustatius.
Varying types of habitat
are protected, ranging from elfin forest at the top
of the Quill volcano to thorny woodland on the lower
slopes. The Park gives guided tours to visitors and
maintains a network of 10 trails in the Quill sector. |
The third protected area is the Miriam Schmidt Botanical
Garden. Created in 1998, this Garden provides a haven
for the protection of the island’s nature fauna
and flora whilst, at the same time, creating an opportunity
to rest in peaceful surroundings.
The Garden is adjacent
to the boundary of the Quill National Park and extends
for 5.3ha across the southern slopes of the Quill. Visitors
can learn more about the flora of St Eustatius, take
a walk through the forest or picnic and enjoy the views
of St Kitts and beyond.
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