VIWMA ENGAGES COMMUNITY ON BOVONI LANDFILL FIRE MITIGATION EFFORTS AND WASTE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES
(St. Thomas, USVI) - The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) participated in a community meeting hosted by the Bovoni, Bolongo, and Nadir Community Action Group in Bovoni on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. VIWMA representatives, Daryl Griffith, Interim Executive Director, along with Shena Esannason, Solid Waste Director, Denise Lewis, Emergency Management Administrator, Alex Bruney, Engineering Manager, and Lorna Nichols-Minkoff, Communications Director, addressed concerns regarding landfill fires and reaffirmed their commitment to community safety. Residents expressed their concerns and asked questions about recent incidents, including the impact of the Bovoni Landfill fires on community health, long-term landfill plans, and ways to improve their community, for future generations.
During the meeting, Griffith outlined the measures being implemented to mitigate fire risks at the landfill. “Safety is our top priority,” Griffith stated. “We are actively working to implement new systems to improve our waste management practices and prevent future incidents. These initiatives include composting, recycling, waste diversion, source separation, air curtain burners or incinerators, and 'Green Waste Mitigation,' which includes purchasing a compost mulcher. We are also focusing on contract bidding, securing grants, establishing convenience centers instead of roadside trash bins, better enforcement and compliance to address illegal dumping of trash, tires, and oil, and enhancing community education strategies to ensure that both the Bovoni and Anguilla landfills operate safely, efficiently, and responsibly.”
Meeting attendees Fire Chief Eustace Grant, Jr., and Senators Avery Lewis, Angel L. Bolques, Jr., and Marvin Blyden responded by emphasizing their dedication to transparency and engaging with the community.
The VIWMA would like to express its gratitude to the Bovoni, Bolongo, and Nadir Community Action Group for their dedication to the community and for fostering networking opportunities. The group will provide regular updates and host open forums to keep residents informed about safety measures and landfill operations.
Together, we can work towards a safer and healthier community.
For more information, please contact the Division of Education and Communications Management at 340-474-2811 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Stay connected with us for updates on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
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07-23-2025