B.V.I. Wednesday, June 30 (GIS Press Release) - “Traditionally Fisherman’s Day has always been the closing extravaganza for Environment Month and every year we look forward to this time when we come together as a community. Your contribution is your presence”, Mr. Lettsome said. – Chief Conservation and Fisheries Officer, Mr. Bertrand Lettsome encourages the community to come out and be a part of Fisherman’s Day 2010 at Long Bay Beach, Beef Island, this Friday.

“It is important that we celebrate Environment Month because the environment is the foundation on which we build our economy and it is the base of our subsistence. Fishermen contribute to our Territory enormously by providing an essential service and we use this event to recognize them”, Mr. Lettsome expressed.

Mr. Lettsome also added that there will be lifeguards on duty to ensure the safety of all attendees on the beach, as done in the previous years.

Coordinator of Fisherman’s Day and Fisheries Officer, Mr. Samuel Davies explained that, “Activities will take place under the theme, Fisher’s on the move promoting biodiversity for sustainable productivity”.

Mr. Davies further explained that the highlights of the extravaganza, which will be observed on Territory Day, a public holiday, will include the annual fishing tournaments with three categories open to competitors which are trolling, reef fishing and family tournament opened to parents and children.

“Participants must register at the Conservation and Fisheries Department by Thursday, July 1 to participate in the fishing tournaments and obtain a valid fishing license from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour to take part in the trolling and reef fishing categories”, Mr. Davies urged persons.

“All tournaments will begin on Friday, July 2 at 4:00 a.m. with the official catch weigh in scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m.”, Mr. Davies added.

Other activities for Fisherman’s Day include a prize-giving ceremony for the fishing tournaments along with various beach games such as swimming races, diving, tug-of-war, soldier crab races and domino games. Persons will also be treated to live entertainment by local DJs, DJ Bertram, DJ Wiz, Millennium King and a fashion show presented by Envy BVI.

This event is hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Conservation and Fisheries Department. It is the Territory’s 21st observation of Fisherman’s Day.

Persons interested in learning more about Fisherman’s Day can contact the Conservation and Fisheries Department at 494-5681 or 494-3429 or visit their office in the Quastisky Building on the 2nd floor or the department’s website at www.bvidef.org.