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Buck Island Reef National Monument

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description Buck Island Reef National Monument Overview

Buck Island Reef National Monument is a protected marine and terrestrial area northeast of St. Croix in the United States Virgin Islands. President John F. Kennedy established the monument in 1961, and it was later expanded to protect surrounding waters and marine habitats.

The site includes Buck Island, beaches, seagrass beds, and a barrier reef known for elkhorn coral, making it important for conservation, scientific study, snorkeling, and diving.

help Buck Island Reef National Monument FAQ

Where is the Buck Island Reef National Monument located?

Buck Island Reef National Monument is located northeast of St. Croix in the United States Virgin Islands. It sits in the Caribbean Sea. The monument encompasses both the small island and its surrounding marine habitats.

Who established the Buck Island Reef National Monument and when?

The monument was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. This federal designation was created to protect the island's pristine marine and terrestrial environments. It was later expanded to protect a larger area of the surrounding waters.

What U.S. territory contains the Buck Island Reef National Monument?

The monument is located within the United States Virgin Islands, specifically off the coast of St. Croix. As a U.S. territory, the site is managed by the National Park Service. It remains one of the few fully protected marine areas in the Caribbean.

What type of environment does the Buck Island Reef National Monument protect?

The monument protects a diverse marine ecosystem featuring an elkhorn coral barrier reef. It also protects the sandy beaches of Buck Island, which serve as a crucial nesting ground for endangered leatherback sea turtles. The waters are famous for snorkeling and underwater trails.

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