Recent news indicates that the much anticipated rebuilding of hurricane damaged Mullet Resort on Sint Maarten may soon begin.  Join us in urging the Island Government to protect the mangroves and seagrass beds of Mullet Pond, which forms the border of the resort property.

Mullet Pond is an undeveloped area of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.  This lagoon is one of the largest in the Caribbean, serving a vital role in the marine ecosystem. Mullet Pond harbors extensive seagrass beds and aquatic mangrove trees. In fact, this one area represents about 65% of all the mangroves left in St. Maarten’s Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The United Nations has estimated that Mangrove stands are valued at $900,000 per km² per year.  Why are these trees so important? They are crucial for our fisheries, serving as a nursery for fish, conch, lobster, shrimp and many other forms of sea life. Birds nest and feed among the roots and branches. These trees also have the remarkable ability to remove pollution from the water. In addition, Mangroves are needed to act as a buffer during hurricanes, preventing erosion of the shoreline.   

Development plans for Mullet Resort recently posted online (click here to view) describe an 85 yacht marina, including megayachts up to 300 feet, and 32 yacht villas with private docks. This type of development, involving dredging seagrass beds and destruction of mangroves, in such a rare and extensive natural area of the lagoon is unacceptable. The oil, fuel, detergent, anti-fouling paint, and other toxins associated with boats will pollute this relatively pristine area of the lagoon.

Although it is impossible to confirm what the exact building plans are, past experience has shown we must be proactive in voicing our opinion on how development is to take place. The Island Government has approved major building projects without public notice or review.

The economy of Sint Maarten is dependent upon tourists who want to visit a beautiful tropical island.  It is the beaches, the lagoon, the reefs and the mountains that visitors enjoy; the very resources which are being destroyed at a phenomenal rate.  Development will continue, but it must be managed responsibly so that areas as ecologically important, unique, and beautiful as Mullet Pond are preserved along with the economy.

There is no doubt a restored Mullet Resort will be in high demand and will create jobs. This site has the only golf course on the island, one of the best beaches, a beautiful lagoon side setting, and an excellent landscape. Destroying the unique and very important natural areas of Mullet Pond will not improve the economy.  Property owner Sun Resorts, on the other hand, will benefit from the more expensive waterfront homes and dock space.  But their benefit will be St. Maarten’s great loss, for a vital part of our natural heritage will have vanished.