St. Croix -- Going Green Through Preservation of Natural Heritage and Agricultural Tradition
In order to preserve and celebrate the island’s incredible past, the St. Croix Landmarks Society has established the Heritage Trail, linking a variety of historical sites, includeing sxhools, forts, churches, and botanical gardens. At one of the trail’s stops, the Estate Whim Plantation Museum, one can tour extensive grounds, see and 18th century coral stone great house, explore a mill or simply soak up the shade of a 300 year old tamarind tree. The Heritage Trail is clearly displayed on an illustrated map that is available throughout St. Croix and on the society’s website. The map can be used for a self- guided driving tour and even provides invaluable tips on local food, music and patois. For those interested, a monthly guided Ruins Ramble is offered- a hike and talk excursion through one of the islands more secluded plantations.
Virgin Islands Sustainable Farming
At the Virgin Islands Sustainable Farm Institute, a working educational farm on beautiful St. Croix, agro ecology is the focus and the mission is to “farm with nature, not against it.” With this concept in mind, the farm conserves precious resources and increases its productivity by utilizing ecological and indigenous farming methods and teaching others to do the same. On the 100 plus acres of the farm, organic produce is grown, including delicious mangoes, papaya, passion fruit, coconut, cucumber, rosemary, dill, tarragon, and cilantro. One may choose to enjoy a meal made directly from these incredibly fresh ingredients during the farm’s Creque Slow Down Dinner Experience, where 90 percent of the meal including the meat is from right outside the dining room door- one may choose to sample lamb skewers with mango mint sauce or a salad of tat soi lettuce with ginger- honey- and- lime-vinaigrette, and finish with a fruit flambé or cranberry hibiscus sorbet. These spectacular dinners support specialized workshops, college programs and community open houses. For those craving seconds (: )), one may choose to come back and study agricultural economics, alternative energy, composting, forest foraging, or herbal healing.
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