Commissioner Jean‑Pierre L. Oriol of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) is advising the St. Croix community that the Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) is offering free public access to the Isaac Gateword James Park (IGJP) Archery Range during designated times each week.
Beginning the week of May 11, 2026, the archery range will be open Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Please note that these hours represent a change from previous opening days and times.
To ensure safe use of the facility, access is limited to a maximum of 10 individuals per session, with one DPNR staff member overseeing up to nine participants. Each session will consist of a 90‑minute time slot, and advance registration is required. Sign‑ups open each Monday for the upcoming week, subject to availability.
“DPNR remains committed to providing the Virgin Islands community with safe and accessible outdoor recreational opportunities,” said Commissioner Oriol. Through our collaboration with the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, the archery range offers a designated space where residents can responsibly practice with their equipment. Standard archery targets are permitted. The shooting of domesticated or wild animals is prohibited in the Virgin Islands, except in limited circumstances approved on a case‑by‑case basis. All safety rules for archery use at IGJP have been carefully reviewed and must be followed.
The government‑operated archery range adheres to all Government of the Virgin Islands policies and safety standards. Individuals interested in participating must register online to check availability and reserve a time slot by visiting: Permits & Applications – Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources and filling out the DPNR Archery Field Use application.
DPNR receives funding through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife Restoration Program, which supports the maintenance and availability of public archery ranges nationwide.
Groups or individuals with their own archery equipment who are interested in learning or practicing more advanced archery or hunting‑related skills are encouraged to contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife directly.
For more information, visit https://dpnr.vi.gov or contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife call
St. Croix: (340) 773‑1082 or St. Thomas: (340) 774‑3320
Email: DFWElectronic@usvi.onmicrosoft.com
