This Treasure of the Chesapeake Bay Could Soon Be Lost Forever

Tangier Island’s semi-isolation in the Chesapeake Bay has provided just enough buffer for the community to remain refreshingly connected to its heritage, beliefs, accent and traditions. Most of the Island’s population descend from the original Cornish families who settled here some 350 years ago. Over the centuries, the island has developed into a one of a kind enclave in America, possibly with more similarities to an island off Cornwall, England than one you might expect inside a bay inside the US. The stirring landscape, colorful history, unique culture and friendly community of Tangier Island has been preserved and protected for nearly 350 years.  Visiting provides an old world experience replete with traditional waterman, housewives and doting mothers, soft shell crabs, milk shakes, picket fences, simple values and a vision of life without the constant rush of the world of today.

The Tangier Island experience enriches us on many levels but sadly, without our help, this treasure will soon disappear.

This project is an effort of the Virginia Ecological Solutions Foundation (VESF) to combine a dedicated group of talented marine biologists and engineers with Tangier Island Protectors, including you. Over 90% of your donations go directly towards reef construction, deployment and living shorelines to protect Tangier Island. Learn more below and throughout this website.

Join Us Today – Link directly to our Donations page here.

VESF Is Chosen to Provide Sustainable Solution For Two Areas of Tangier Island Now Rated Urgently Critical

A group led by the Accomack County Planning District Commission, the Tangier Town Council, local scientists and others have identified two critically-endangered cornerstone areas of Tangier island. The Tangier Town Council has joined with Virginia Ecological Solutions Foundation (VESF) to manage a  multi-step plan to save Tangier. Phase 1 of the campaign, seeks a combined 6 million dollars as it kicks off an urgent “Time is of the Essence” call to all those interested in Saving Tangier Island.

The group’s 6 million goal is well within reach and the science-based solutions using nature to redirect the power of nature are attainable. Here’s how you can help.

Consider joining the Save Tangier Island Campaign today with your important contribution. You’ll be helping to save a historic, storied, treasure and its unique community of families, watermen and stewards of the Chesapeake Bay.

Time is clearly not standing still here and the Island residents can’t do this alone. Soon after arriving, most visitors can feel a timeless relationship between the islanders and their surroundings.

In reality, for locals and visitors, there is only a short time left to make a difference. Be a part to help preserve all that Tangier is and all Tangier continues to give back. Here’s your chance to help. Please make your donation today. by clicking here.

Are you interested in helping as a volunteer?

We are trying to build our Protect Tangier community. If you are interested in helping, please send your contact information and area of interest or special skills to news@vesf.org