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KEMAH, TEXAS — Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) is proud to announce the opening of its new headquarters, The Gessner Center , a state-of-the-art facility located on Galveston Bay. Designed to serve as a hub for environmental education, conservation, and community engagement, the building represents a major milestone in GBF’s mission to preserve and protect the Bay for generations to come. The Gessner Center was developed with sustainability at its core and is part of the internationally recognized Living Building Challenge . The project successfully incorporates numerous petals of the challenge, reflecting a commitment to regenerative design, environmental responsibility, and long-term resilience. Public access to the Bay remains limited, and GBF envisioned this space as a place where people can connect directly with the water through future programs, educational experiences, and guided visits. By welcoming students and community members onto the site and into the building, The Gessner Center serves as a gateway to the Bay—fostering a deeper understanding of its importance and inspiring the next generation of coastal stewards. “This project has always been about opening the Bay to people,” said Bob Stokes, President of the Galveston Bay Foundation. “For so many in our region, access to Galveston Bay is limited. The Gessner Center changes that. It creates a place where students and community members can experience the Bay firsthand—through education, exploration, and connection. More than anything, this is about inspiring people to care about the Bay by giving them the opportunity to truly engage with it.” The Gessner Center is made possible through the extraordinary generosity and vision of its namesakes, Barbara and Andy Gessner. “Galveston Bay Foundation will be able to use The Gessner Center to educate people why they should care about the Bay and how they can help protect it for future generations. Andy and I agree on the importance of education, especially as it pertains to the environment,” said Barbara Gessner. The successful realization of The Gessner Center is the result of a collaborative effort between intentional architects, expert builders, and landscape designers committed to sustainability and resilience. Designed by Kirksey Architecture , the b uilding blends innovation with environmental stewardship. “For our team, this project is both a milestone and a call to action. It demonstrates that even in challenging coastal contexts, buildings can give back more than they take. It offers a replicable model for designers and builders who aspire to pursue high-performance, restorative architecture. Most importantly, it positions the Galveston Bay Foundation to continue protecting and promoting the shoreline’s natural beauty for generations to come,” said Catherine Callaway, Associate Partner & Director of Sustainability and Building Performance at Kirksey. Satterfield & Pontikes served as the general contractor for the project, bringing the vision of a high-performance, environmentally responsible facility to life through thoughtful construction practices and attention to detail. Together, these efforts ensure that The Gessner Center is not only a building, but a living, breathing extension of the Bay itself. About Galveston Bay Foundation  Galveston Bay Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Galveston Bay through land conservation, habitat restoration, education, water protection, research, and advocacy. By partnering with individuals, organizations, and communities, GBF works to ensure a healthy and resilient Bay for generations to come.

CHAMBERS COUNTY, TEXAS — Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) has completed the Cane Bayou Conservation Easement, permanently protecting 2,250 acres of working lands and wildlife habitat, adjacent to the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge in southern Chambers County. With this project, GBF’s conservation holdings now exceed 20,000 acres across the Galveston Bay watershed.   The Cane Bayou Conservation Easement safeguards vital migratory corridors for shorebirds and waterfowl while preserving wetlands and important coastal habitats that support native wildlife and plant communities. Protection of this landscape enhances regional water quality and strengthens coastal resilience, while maintaining the rural character and working lands that define this part of the Texas coast.   “This project is a powerful example of how conservation and agriculture can go hand in hand,” said Bob Stokes, President of Galveston Bay Foundation. “By partnering with a dedicated landowner, we’re helping sustain working lands that are also essential to the ecological health of Galveston Bay.”   Conservation easements are a voluntary agreement between landowners and a land trust that permanently preserves conservation values like water quality and wildlife habitat. Cane Bayou will remain under private ownership and managed for rotational rice farming, cattle ranching, and wildlife — demonstrating how agricultural operations and conservation can work in tandem with proper management.    “This property proves you don’t have to choose between agriculture and conservation,” said landowner Tyler Fitzgerald. “With this easement, we’re protecting both a working landscape and the habitat that makes it special. As my family approaches the century mark on this land, this partnership with GBF will ensure the property stays whole in the future.”    The Cane Bayou Conservation Easement was made possible in part through funding from the Natural Resources Conservation Service Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) – Texas Coastal Prairie Initiative, administered by the Coastal Prairie Conservancy. Additional supporters include the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Program, the Knobloch Family Foundation, the Gulf Partnership, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation.      About Galveston Bay Foundation  Founded in 1987, Galveston Bay Foundation is a nonprofit organization that preserves and enhances Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come through programs in advocacy, habitat restoration, land conservation, water quality, education, and research.   Media Contact:  Kimberly Meza, Communications and Marketing Manager    Kmeza@galvbay.org | 281-923-3278

CHAMBERS COUNTY, TEXAS — Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) has acquired 20 acres of coastal habitat north of the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge. The property, known as Whimbrel Fields Preserve , connects directly to privately conserved lands and expands protected open space in the East Galveston Bay watershed.   Whimbrel Fields Preserve protects vital migratory corridors for waterfowl and shorebirds, including its namesake, the Hudsonian Whimbrel, while also supporting regional water quality and coastal resilience. The habitat will benefit native wildlife, particularly shorebirds that migrate long distances and depend on connected conservation corridors for critical stopover habitat.   The property is adjacent to the Oyster Bayou Conservation Easement, a 450-acre preserve protected by GBF in partnership with the landowner. Whimbrel Fields Preserve is also part of a broader network of conservation projects led by GBF and partners along FM 1985 in southern Chambers County.   “Any time we can connect conserved habitat, it’s a win for Galveston Bay,” said Bob Stokes, Galveston Bay Foundation President. “This property builds on partnership efforts that have protected thousands of acres within the East Bay watershed.”   The acquisition was made possible in part through funding from the Knobloch Family Foundation, Galveston Bay Estuary Program, and Gulf Partnership.   Whimbrel Fields Preserve adds to the more than 19,000 acres GBF has conserved across the Galveston Bay watershed. These coastal habitats support regional wildlife, protect water quality, and strengthen community resilience.   About Galveston Bay Foundation  Founded in 1987, Galveston Bay Foundation is a nonprofit organization that preserves and protects Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come through programs in Advocacy, Habitat Restoration, Land Conservation, Water Protection, Education, and Research.   Media Contact:  Kimberly Meza, Communications and Marketing Manager    Kmeza@galvbay.org | 281-923-3278

On Friday, November 7th, more than 375 supporters of Galveston Bay Foundation gathered at The Revaire in Houston for an unforgettable evening celebrating the future of our Bay. This year’s Imagine Gala invited guests to imagine a Galveston Bay that continues to thrive for years to come—and they did just that, helping raise over $710,000 to support the Foundation’s vital conservation, education, research, and restoration work. The theme came to life from the moment guests entered the room. Dreamy clouds floated overhead, and the space was filled with interactive activations and stunning wall displays showcasing each of GBF’s core program areas. The creative design, brought to life by RL Design, encouraged everyone to pause, participate, and truly imagine what a healthy, resilient Galveston Bay can look like with community support.   Guests enjoyed a lively silent and live auction, featuring stunning items, one-of-a-kind experiences, world trips, and coastal getaways, with every bid helping to fund projects that protect the Bay’s waters, wildlife, and wetlands.   “At Galveston Bay Foundation, we’re not just working for today, we’re building for tomorrow. The Imagine Gala was more than a celebration—it was a reminder that when we come together for the Bay, we create lasting change,” said Bob Stokes, President of Galveston Bay Foundation. “Every dollar raised helps us keep Galveston Bay healthy and vibrant for generations to come.”   The evening also recognized the outstanding contributions of this year’s honorees, Cheniere Energy and Mary and Brad Robbins , whose leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on GBF’s mission.   The Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to the event’s top sponsors, including Transocean, John P. McGovern Foundation, Macey & Harry Reasoner, and Kyle & John Kirksey , as well as the many other sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests who made the evening possible. Together, we’re imagining—and building—a brighter future for Galveston Bay.   About Galveston Bay Foundation    Galveston Bay Foundation is a conservation nonprofit that has served as guardian of Galveston Bay since 1987. Our mission is to preserve and enhance Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come. We work to facilitate a true cross-section of Bay interests through creative, inclusive and forward-thinking solutions to the challenges confronting Galveston Bay. We envision a future Bay that is brimming with vitality, connected to people, and contributing to the community in every possible way.  Photos from the evening can be found here .

CHAMBERS COUNTY, TEXAS — Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) has finalized the Onion Bayou Conservation Easement , permanently protecting 450 acres of wetland habitat in southern Chambers County, directly north of the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge within the East Galveston Bay watershed.    The property, which the landowner will continue to own, is actively managed for rotational rice farming and wildlife habitat, connecting agricultural heritage to critical ecological functions that will be secured for generations to come. The conservation easement represents a partnership between the landowner and GBF to ensure conservation values remain preserved.   The Onion Bayou Conservation Easement safeguards vital migratory corridors for shorebirds and waterfowl while protecting frontage along Onion Bayou and its tributaries. The conservation easement not only enhances regional water quality and coastal resilience but also preserves the rural landscape and traditions that have defined this part of the Texas coast for decades.   “This project is a great example of how conservation and agriculture can work hand in hand,” said Bob Stokes, President of Galveston Bay Foundation. “By partnering with a dedicated landowner and our conservation allies, we’re helping sustain working lands that are also vital to the ecological health of Galveston Bay.”   The Onion Bayou Conservation Easement was made possible in part through funding from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) - Texas Coastal Prairie Initiative, administered by the Coastal Prairie Conservancy, along with critical support from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Program, the Knobloch Family Foundation, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation.   The Onion Bayou Conservation Easement is part of the 19,000 acres of land GBF has conserved across the Galveston Bay watershed. These coastal habitats support the region’s wildlife, water quality, and community resilience.   About Galveston Bay Foundation  Founded in 1987, Galveston Bay Foundation is a nonprofit organization that preserves and enhances Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come through programs in advocacy, habitat restoration, land conservation, water quality, education, and research.   Media Contact:  Kimberly Meza, Communications and Marketing Manager    Kmeza@galvbay.org | 281-923-3278

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2lKcFfRbKQ Galveston Bay Foundation was thrilled to share the story about how our Oyster Shell Recycling Program came to be with the viewers of Houston Life and host, Derrick Shore. Watch the segment featuring our President, Bob Stokes, alongside Tom Tollett, owner of Tommy's Restaurant Oyster Bar in Clear Lake. Tom helped bring our program to life, and because of him and 38 other Houston/Galveston restaurants, we are able to recycle hundreds of tons of oyster shells back into the Bay every year. We then took Derrick and the Houston Life viewers along to our curing site where we place the recycled oyster shell to cure for 6+ months before placing it back into Galveston Bay through our restoration reef efforts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85nZ1Lq14vU Thank you to the Galveston Bay Estuary Program and University of Houston Clear Lake for raising awareness about our efforts and working together in partnership with Galveston Bay Foundation to preserve and protect Galveston Bay for future generations.

HOUSTON (April 5, 2025) – Galveston Bay Foundation’s fourth annual Oyster & SeaFest raised over $110,000, which the net proceeds benefit the nonprofit organization’s habitat restoration program, including its oyster reef restoration and oyster shell recycling efforts. Additionally, 683 pounds of oyster shell was recycled at the festival and will make its way back to the Bay, providing a home to over 41,000 baby oysters. The oyster and seafood tasting event took place on Saturday, April 5 at Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park and welcomed more than 700 Houston-area foodies and outdoor enthusiasts to kick off Earth Month. Guests enjoyed delicious oyster and seafood dishes, specialty cocktails, live music, yard games, and plenty of family-friendly educational activities. This year, the events hosted both restaurants and oyster farmers who served up creative oyster and seafood-inspired dishes. These incredible restaurants and oyster farmers truly brought the heat with incredible dishes! BB’s Tex Orleans, Capt. Benny's, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, DJ’s Oyster Co. by Oyster Bros, Key Allegro Oyster Co., Landry’s Seafood House, Loch Bar, Lone Star Oyster Co., McCormick & Schmick’s, Navy Blue, and Pig and Rooster Craft Oysters. Key Allegro Oyster Co. won the event’s People’s Choice Award, and Navy Blue won the Judge’s Choice Award. Guests in the VIP area enjoyed a raw oyster bar from Prestige Oysters along with shrimp tacos from Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, paired with bubbles and cocktails. While general admission tickets were priced at $35 and $50 and VIP tickets were priced at $175, most of the day’s funds were raised thanks to generous sponsors: Perry Homes, The Oyster Resource and Recovery Center, JP McGovern Foundation, Pat Hammond, Avera, Fortune Fish & Gourmet, Orsted, Port Houston, Southern Devall, Reliant an NRG Company, Gulf Coast Authority, Thunder Exploration, Sanpellegrino CIAO! Flavored Sparkling Water, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Transocean, LYLO, Arctic Ice, Bloody Revolution, Saint Arnold's Brewery, Krewe Eyewear, Kendra Scott, Galveston Fishing Co., Whataburger, and Mandito’s. Funds raised from Saturday’s event support Habitat Restoration work, enabling the organization to continue offering oyster shell recycling services to 39 Houston-area restaurants. In 2024, Galveston Bay Foundation reclaimed 233 tons of oyster shell to return to the Bay. The organization has collected over 2,000 tons since its inception in 2011. Over 285 hours of time were donated by 60+ volunteers who came out to support the event. This effort would not have been possible without them. “Oysters provide vital ecological benefits to Galveston Bay but have become increasingly threatened. For this reason, Galveston Bay Foundation works to restore oyster habitat by placing oyster shell back in the Bay where it will serve as habitat for new oysters to grow. The 700+ Houstonians who came out to celebrate and enjoy oysters with us on Saturday are directly contributing to this work,” said Bob Stokes, President, Galveston Bay Foundation. “We are so appreciative of the generous restaurants who participated in the event, along with our sponsors and attendees at our 2025 Oyster & SeaFest!” To learn more about Galveston Bay Foundation, its 2025 Oyster & SeaFest or its Habitat Restoration program, visit g alvbay.org or contact Kimberly Meza at kmeza@galvbay.org and 281-923-3278. PHOTOS Gary Blake and Katie Miller

Kemah, TX (Feb.14) - The Galveston Bay Foundation commenced construction today on The Gessner Center, its 14,000-square-foot headquarters located in Kemah, TX. Once completed, the building will become a Petal Certified Living Building, a performance-based program oriented toward buildings designed to be regenerative and positively impact the environment and the people who use them. The Gessner Center will be one of a handful of completed projects in Texas to have undergone the Living Building Challenge. The building, designed by Houston-based Kirksey Architecture, is located on 30-acres of land at 1725 Highway 146. Developed with the broader community in mind, the facility will include a living shoreline, walking trails, boardwalks, an observation deck, and a pier to provide access to the Bay’s many natural habitats. TBG Partners is leading the landscape design and outdoor components of the project. The Gessner Center is expected to be complete by Spring 2026. “Since its founding, Galveston Bay Foundation has been committed to preserving - and celebrating - the health and beauty of the Bay,” said Galveston Bay Foundation President, Bob Stokes. “Our Kemah headquarters gives us a place to do that, providing a destination for visitors to experience the awe of the Bay and to learn about the rich diversity of Gulf Coast wildlife, conservation, and science.” The project was made possible thanks to a lead gift from Andy and Barbara Gessner, long-time supporters of the foundation. To bring The Gessner Center to life, The Galveston Bay Foundation launched a $24.6 million capital campaign in 2020. The Gessner Center will serve as hub for both education and community. With indoor and outdoor classrooms, a community gathering space, and direct access to the water, the Center will provide countless opportunities for students and adults to learn about and experience the Bay. IMAGES: HERE . VIDEO FLY THROUGH:  The Future of the Galveston Bay Foundation Headquarters Kirksey Architecture – Architect TBG Partners – Landscape Architect Satterfield & Pontikes Construction – General Contractor CMTA – MEP DDG – Civil Engineering Pinnacle – Structural

SAN LEON, TX —Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) has permanently protected 23 acres of critical coastal prairie habitat located in San Leon, known as the Salt Bayou Preserve . Eventually, the preserve will be open to the public for passive recreation and enjoyment, bringing much-needed natural space access to the coastal communities of San Leon, Bacliff, and Dickinson. GBF will implement habitat management efforts to enhance the ecological health and biodiversity of the property. “Coastal prairie is our native ecosystem,” said Matt Singer, GBF’s Director of Land Conservation. “The prairie historically spanned for thousands of miles along the Gulf Coast and into Mexico. Now, less than 1% of coastal prairie habitats remains intact, and the remnant high-quality grasslands are almost entirely located in Texas. Every piece of prairie protected is a critical resource, and re-establishing community connections to the local ecosystems is an integral part of Galveston Bay Foundation’s mission.” Thanks in part to local San Leon resident Emmett Brandon and his family, this essential habitat is protected forever. The Brandon Family generously donated a portion of the land’s value to facilitate the transaction. This lasting gift will allow future generations to create meaningful connections to the land. “I grew up on the coastal prairie. I remember looking for miles across the prairie, inhabited by quail, prairie chickens, alligators and all the little critters that come with, now mostly gone. My hope was that at least a small part of it could be saved for future generations to enjoy so they too can make great memories,” said Mr. Brandon. This project has been funded in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement no. 4T-02F24301 to Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. About Galveston Bay Foundation Galveston Bay Foundation is a conservation nonprofit that has served as guardian of Galveston Bay since 1987. Our mission is to preserve and enhance Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come. We work to facilitate a true cross-section of Bay interests through creative, inclusive and forward-thinking solutions to the challenges confronting Galveston Bay. We envision a future Bay that is brimming with vitality, connected to people, and contributing to the community in every possible way.

As you plan your year-end giving, we encourage you to consider tax-smart options that not only benefit Galveston Bay Foundation but can also provide you with significant tax advantages. Tax-smart gifts have become an increasingly popular way to support Galveston Bay Foundation because they help your generosity go further. These options allow you to give more efficiently, potentially reducing your taxable income when you file in the spring.  With only a few weeks to go until the end of the year, we hope you will consider our tax-smart options that benefit Galveston Bay Foundation and can provide you with significant tax advantages. Thank you in advance for your dedication and gift to Galveston Bay Foundation. We are also closing in on our year-end goal of $300,000 to support LOCAL conservation , education, and community-building that creates a healthier future for Texas’s largest estuary! Donate today to help us continue our work in creating a healthy Bay for all! No matter the size, your gift makes a difference in our ability to protect and enhance this vital resource. Together, we can bridge gaps and ensure that everyone can experience the benefits of a thriving Galveston Bay.

GALVESTON, TX – October 25, 2024 – The 18th Annual Bike Around the Bay took place this past weekend, drawing cyclists of all levels to enjoy a scenic two-day ride around Galveston Bay. The event, held on Saturday, October 19 th and Sunday, October 20 th was a resounding success, showcasing the beauty of our coastal community while raising awareness and funds for Galveston Bay.  Over $650,000 was raised by participants who tackled 97 miles on day one, 75 miles on day two, or our 20- and 43-mile routes from Bike Around the Island in Galveston. Riders braved the wind and were able to take in stunning views of the Bay, ride the Boliver Ferry, and spot local wildlife. This year, we had nearly 1,000 riders cycle both Bike Around the Bay and Bike Around the Island. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, volunteers, and staff whose dedication and support made this event possible. A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, LyondellBasell , whose contributions helped to elevate the experience for all participants. Their commitment to fostering a vibrant Bay community is truly commendable. “We are thrilled to support Bike Around the Bay, an event that exemplifies our commitment to protect our planet for future generations," said Elizabeth Weiss, LyondellBasell Senior Manager Global Corporate Citizenship. "It was heartwarming to see our community come together over the weekend to enjoy the beauty of Galveston Bay while also contributing to its preservation. We are honored to have been part of such a meaningful initiative and are inspired by the dedication of all the participants in this year's ride to make a difference in the region.” Our volunteers played a crucial role in the success of the event, providing assistance at rest stops, helping with registration, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all riders. We appreciate your enthusiasm and hard work – you are the backbone of this event! An additional thank you to our sponsors who helped make this large-scale event a success. Moody Foundation , Indian Doctors Association Houston , NRG Energy , Transocean , Memorial Hermann , Saint Arnold , Austin , CORDA Investment Management , ITC , Hierarchy Advertising , Kuraray , Sun & Ski Sports , Castle Biosciences , Covestro , ZT Corporation , Adrian Garcia Harris County Precinct 2 , Vitol , Odfjell , Sprint Transport , Primal, Trek , Bikeanics , Katoen Natie , Taco Cabana , Dole , and Hoverair . As we reflect on the success of this year’s Bike Around the Bay, we look forward to seeing even more riders in 2025! For those who participated, thank you for being a part of our cycling community. Stay tuned for updates and registration information for next year’s event. About Galveston Bay Foundation Galveston Bay Foundation is a conservation nonprofit that has served as guardian of Galveston Bay since 1987. Our mission is to preserve and enhance Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come. We work to facilitate a true cross-section of Bay interests through creative, inclusive and forward-thinking solutions to the challenges confronting Galveston Bay. We envision a future Bay that is brimming with vitality, connected to people, and contributing to the community in every possible way.

ANAHUAC, TX —Marsh Mania is a nationally recognized, award-winning community-based marsh restoration event that has been a cornerstone of the Galveston Bay area since its inception in 1999. It is an initiative that has restored more than 221 acres of vital coastal habitat involving over 8,500 volunteers in its rich history.  We kicked off National Estuaries Week (September 21-28, 2024) by hosting two additional planting events ahead of our 25 th Annual Marsh Mania event. In total, we had 105 volunteers helping with both planting and event support. Collectively, our volunteers were able to log 436 hours valued at $13,911! Volunteers gathered for a hands-on planting event with the goal to not only restore our precious marshlands and prairies but also to increase awareness and appreciation of wetland habitats and their functions. There were 11,000 stems of smooth cordgrass planted at the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge , with an additional 600 coastal prairie plants at Galveston Bay Foundation Headquarters, and 1,700 stems of freshwater wetland plants at Exploration Green, our conservation partner. “Year after year, our plantings are a success due to the incredible dedication of our volunteers and the steadfast support of both our sponsors and agency partners. Wading through wetlands, planting prairie grasses, and providing support to host these events are all essential to the greater work of protecting and enhancing Galveston Bay and its connected habitats. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to ensuring their health and vitality for generations to come,” says Galveston Bay Foundation Volunteer Manager, Elisa O’Neal.  Our constant success with Marsh Mania is made possible thanks to generous support from Aramco , CITGO , United Airlines , Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund , Transocean , John P. McGovern Foundation, Ports America , Port Houston , Stolt Tankers , Odfjell , and Houston Pilots . Thank you for your contributions and for supporting Galveston Bay for generations to come. About Galveston Bay Foundation: Galveston Bay Foundation is a conservation nonprofit that has served as guardian of Galveston Bay since 1987. Our mission is to preserve and enhance Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come. We work to facilitate a true cross-section of Bay interests through creative, inclusive, and forward-thinking solutions to the challenges confronting Galveston Bay. We envision a future Bay that is brimming with vitality, connected to people, and contributing to the community in every possible way.