TCRF INSTALLS NEW INFORMATIONAL SIGNAGE AT BIGHT REEF
21 AUGUST 2012, Providenciales, TCI – The Turks & Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF) recently completed the installation of new informational signage on the beach by the Bight Reef. The signs replace previous signage installed by the former Department of Environmental and Coastal Resources, which were destroyed by storms over the past few years. The new signs are made of durable aluminum and should last for years.
“We want to thank the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) for their contribution to this project,” said Don Stark, Chairman of the TCRF. “This is one of the final stages of our effort to improve and upgrade the Bight Reef Snorkel Trail which began last December with our cleaning and replacing the underwater snorkel trail markers.”
The signs provide visitors with information about the snorkel trail, including a map of the locations of the underwater trail markers. They also provide information about reef etiquette and are easily viewable by visitors walking either direction on the beach. The Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs reviewed and approved of the installation of the signs on the beach, which is public property. There is a sign located near the Coral Gardens beach access to the snorkel trail and another located between Coral Gardens Resort and Windsong Resort. The signs were paid for by a donation from the TCHTA and by the TCRF.
TCRF Deputy Chairman, David Stone, said, “It is important for visitors to this lovely near shore reef to understand that they can help maintain this reef for the enjoyment of others through careful interaction with the coral and animals that inhabit the reef. It was very interesting to see how many people stopped to read the information provided even as we were installing the signs, a clear indication of how much visitors want to learn about our reefs.”
The Bight Reef is probably one of the most visited tourist sites on the island of Providenciales. The new informational signage will help ensure the health and longevity of this important island asset.
About TCRF Founded in 2010, the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund is an all volunteer-run organization that provides funding for education, research and conservation programs to individuals, organizations and agencies that help to preserve and protect the marine environment of the Turks & Caicos Islands. Our goal is to have at least 85% of all funds raised through voluntary contributions from divers and snorkelers visiting the Turks & Caicos Islands directed to the Fund’s programs.
Anyone wishing to donate or assist the TCRF in any way can contact them through their website, www.TCReef.org. Scuba divers visiting the islands are encouraged to make a $10 donation through the purchase of a dive tag that can be attached to their dive gear to show their support. Snorkelers visiting the islands can show their support through the $5 purchase of a pink or blue silicone wristband. A complete list of outlets for TCRF merchandise can be found on the organization’s website.