In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and its devastating impact on Mayreau, the small island’s only environmental organisation, We Are Mayreau, found its core tools for marine conservation lost. Their dive boat and engine which they used for underwater surveys, coral restoration and patrols were destroyed. This stopped their important work and  jeopardising both ecosystem protection and community livelihoods.

Through a grant of XCD 89,500, SVGEF has stepped in with the, “Post-Beryl Replacement of Dive Boat & Engine”project to restore these vital capabilities ensuring conservation work can resume.

Thanks to SVGEF’s support, a new 25-foot boat and engine, sourced from local marine suppliers are now in use. They will allow the team to patrol marine spaces, conduct biodiversity and coral reef assessments, and respond swiftly to conservation and environmental incidents.

Islands such as Mayreau which is part of St.Vincent and the Grenadines faces disproportionate environmental risks from hurricanes , rising tides and global warming . By restoring the operational capacity of We Are Mayreau, SVGEF is delivering more than equipment,  it is enabling the island’s community to engage in conservation, safeguard biodiversity and rebuild  livelihoods.

Within a week of launching, the dive boat was engaged with coral restoration work. We Are Mayreau, Clear Caribbean, Richmond Vale Academy Marine team and their supporters came together to engage in coral restoration efforts in partnership with the Reef Ball Foundation.  This dive boat will continue to be used in a variety of project activities for years to come, allowing We Are Mayreau and their partners to engage in various elements of  conservation work throughout the islands in the Southern Grenadines