The decision was made to move the USVI SWAP to a website rather than a single document. This serves two purposes: to make the SWAP a public document with ongoing opportunities for feedback, and to allow for regular revisions and updates based on that feedback and new information and achievements. This initial submission of the SWAP is the framework upon which a visually appealing and publicly accessible site will be built, once the content has been reviewed, revised, and finalized.
The USVI SWAP revision has solicited public participation at multiple stages of the process. Initially we asked conservation professionals and experts to review the list of SGCNs and Conservation Actions from the previous SWAP with an eye towards species or actions that were missing, or any changes in status. To do this, we presented the SWAP at the annual Caribbean Conservation Community of Practice (CCCoP) meeting in February 2025. We presented the SWAP to the entire group of participants and also held focused workshops for those that wanted to work more in depth in giving feedback.
We then followed up by emailing all CCoP participants and other experts personally inviting them to contribute feedback on the SGCNs and Conservation Actions. This included anyone that might have some relevant knowledge including researchers, managers, rehabilitators, educators, permit holders and included people from non-profit organizations, university, federal agencies, local agencies, rehabilitation facilities, nursery managers, private sector organizations, individuals not associated with any organization.
After receiving comments through the network of experts, we incorporated that feedback and created the publicly accessible website. The website has a link to a feedback form that anyone can fill out and submit. The website and the request for feedback was publicized through posting to email listservs and community forums, tabling at community events, a press release that resulted in articles in local news outlets, social media posts on several platforms, and through direct discussion with several groups.
The most valuable and thoughtful feedback came from discussions during tabling, and with small groups. With this in mind, our intention is to continue to include the SWAP in discussions with the public, even beyond the submittal date, furthering our goal of making the USVI SWAP a living document that is aligned with the USVI community’s values and needs.
In implementing these projects and conservation actions, we will be involving and encouraging public involvement through actions described in the “Get Involved” page. We have projects specifically designed for public involvement through community science initiatives, habitat improvement, opportunities for knowledge building, and recreational outdoor enjoyment. Some of these actions will directly address needs described in conservation actions, and others will generate and expand support for future SWAP activities by building a more engaged constituency.