The Center for Marine & Environmental Studies (CMES) is within the Research and Public Service component at the University of the Virgin Islands and was created in 1999 to bring together marine related disciplines within the University of the Virgin Islands. CMES is composed of the MacLean Marine Science Center (MMSC), the Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service (VIMAS) and the Virgin Islands Environmental Resource Station (VIERS). Further information on the background, mission, goals, and approach of CMES follows below.
The MacLean Marine Science Center is located on the St. Thomas campus. Opened in 1992 the center supports both research and acedemic programs at UVI.
The Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service has offices on St. Croix and St. Thomas. Among their objectives is to increase the awareness of marine resources and coastal enviroments.
The Virgin Islands Environmental Resource Station is located in Lameshure Bay on the island of St. John. VIERS is an eco-camp offering unique learning opportunities.

 

BACKGROUND
The Center for Marine and Environmental Studies (CMES) was created on October 1, 1999 to bring together marine related disciplines within the University of the Virgin Islands for the ultimate purpose of strengthening the Marine Science Program. CMES is composed of the Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service (VIMAS), MacLean Marine Science Center (MMSC), Environmental Research Unit (ERU) and Virgin Islands Environmental Resource Station (VIERS). CMES conducts research, outreach and education programs throughout the Virgin Islands. The Center's current research includes assessing the impact of sedimentation from land development on coral reefs, evaluating the effectiveness of marine protected areas for sustainable fisheries and determining the importance of mangrove and seagrass beds as nursery habitats for fisheries production. Coral reef monitoring programs have been established to track the condition of coral reefs within the USVI. The Center for Marine and Environmental Studies is committed to public outreach through training, seminars and educational programs for children, sponsored by the VIMAS and other educational forums such as eco-camps conducted at the VIERS. Outreach programs currently focus on non-point source pollution education, environmentally friendly boating practices and conservation of coastal marine habitats.

MISSION STATEMENT
To advance knowledge and learning in marine, coastal and watershed systems through research, education, student training and outreach programs and to disseminate such knowledge to the academic body, scientific community, government agencies and to the general public.

GOALS

  • Foster and encourage cooperative efforts within and between CMES and other components of the University of the Virgin Islands, federal, state and local agencies, and scientists at other academic institutions and international organizations.
  • Effectively address environmental problems unique to tropical island communities whose social, economic and political well-being rely on healthy natural resources.
  • Increase student involvement in applied marine and environmental research and outreach projects to prepare students to solve environmental problems using scientific, technical and analytical skills and to educate students who will pursue rewarding career pathways.
  • Inform the general public of local and global issues addressed by projects within the CMES and the value of this information to enhancing the quality of life in the VI.

APPROACH
Utilize resources available within the University of the Virgin Islands and from local and federal sources and foster partnerships within the University, between academic institutions, national and international organizations and government agencies to support the development of marine and environmental research, education and outreach