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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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  HOUSTON, TX – September 5, 2024 – Galveston Bay Foundation is pleased to announce it has been recommended for an award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program with funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law . The grant is intended to address critical issues of trash and marine debris in the Houston area. This funding will enable the deployment of trash traps, also known as booms, in three key bayous within Houston waterways. These strategically placed trash traps will capture debris before it can flow downstream into Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, helping to safeguard the health of this vital ecosystem. By intercepting trash early in the waterways, Galveston Bay Foundation aims to prevent significant amounts of pollution from impacting the bay and its diverse marine life. “We are incredibly excited for this opportunity to clean up Houston area bayous,” said Bob Stokes, President of the Galveston Bay Foundation. “This grant will be a game-changer in our efforts to protect Galveston Bay from the harmful effects of marine debris. By focusing on key entry points in the Houston watershed, we can reduce the amount of trash that reaches the bay and significantly improve water quality.” The trash traps, designed to capture and hold debris while allowing water to flow freely, will be installed in three bayous, chosen based on their high traffic of both urban runoff and potential debris sources. The traps will be regularly monitored and maintained , in collaboration with project partner Osprey Initiative, LLC, to ensure their effectiveness and to facilitate timely removal of collected waste. This project aligns with Galveston Bay Foundation’s mission to conserve and restore Galveston Bay through strategic initiatives and community engagement. The implementation of trash traps is a crucial step in the broader effort to address marine debris, which poses threats to aquatic life, human health, and the overall integrity of coastal ecosystems. “We are proud to support Galveston Bay Foundation’s trash interception efforts to protect Houston’s bayous and the greater Galveston Bay watershed,” said Jessi James-Barry, Gulf of Mexico Regional Coordinator for the NOAA Marine Debris Program. “This project will enhance ongoing community beautification efforts, collect valuable trash item data, reduce flood risk, prevent marine debris from entering the ocean, and improve environmental and public health.” The Galveston Bay Foundation will be working closely with local stakeholders, community groups, and volunteers to enhance the effectiveness of this project and promote awareness about the importance of reducing marine debris. 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. About NOAA Marine Debris Program: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Debris Program is a United States Government agency. They were established by Congress in 2006 through the Marine Debris Act and are a program of the National Oceanic and  Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and a division of the Office of Response and Restoration .  They are the United States Government’s lead for addressing marine debris. Their mission is to investigate and prevent the adverse impacts of marine debris and they do this through our six main pillars: Prevention, Removal, Research, Monitoring and Detection, Response, and Coordination. About Osprey Initiative, LLC: Osprey is an environmental consulting company based in Mobile, Alabama that specializes in customized solutions for litter and recycling issues. They provide a full suite of litter interception devices that have proven successful in waterways throughout the country. Find out more at www.osprey.world.  Media Contact:  Kimberly Meza  Communications and Marketing Manager  Galveston Bay Foundation   Phone: 281-923-3278 Email: kmeza@galvbay.org Website: www.galvbay.org  ###

KEMAH, TX – August 23, 2024 - One thing that unites us as a nation is land: Americans strongly support saving the natural spaces they love. Since 1987, Galveston Bay Foundation has been doing just that for the people in the Houston – Galveston region.  Galveston Bay Foundation has announced their renewed land trust accreditation - proving once again that it is committed to conservation excellence. They were first accredited in 2013, which means this will be their third accredited term from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. "Renewing our accreditation shows Galveston Bay Foundation's ongoing commitment to permanent land protection," said Matt Singer, Director of Land Conservation. "We are stronger than ever for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process. Our strength means special places that contribute to the health of Galveston Bay will be protected forever, making our region more resilient now and in the future." Galveston Bay Foundation provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation as a part of the renewal process. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that Galveston Bay Foundation's lands will be protected forever. Accredited land trusts cumulatively steward over 20 million acres throughout the US - the size of Denali, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Everglades and Yosemite National Parks combined. "We are proud to recognize Galveston Bay Foundation 's continued commitment to conservation excellence," said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the Commission. "The accreditation seal is a mark of distinction that stands for excellence, trust and permanence. Galveston Bay Foundation is part of a network of over 450 accredited land trusts that are united by their strong ethical practices. Accredited land trusts inspire confidence and respect among their peers and in their communities."  Galveston Bay Foundation is one of over 30 organizations operating in Texas with a mission that includes land conservation. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at landtrustaccreditation.org . 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. About Land Trust Accreditation Commission  The Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. The Commission, established in 2006 as an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, is governed by a volunteer board of diverse land conservation and nonprofit management experts. For more, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org .  Media Contact:  Kimberly Meza  Communications and Marketing Manager  Galveston Bay Foundation   Phone: 281-923-3278 Email: kmeza@galvbay.org Website: www.galvbay.org

Galveston Bay is one of Texas’s most cherished natural treasures and a mong its m any inhabitants, oysters hold a special place . As we strive to balance human activity with environmental stewardship, the importance of oysters in Galveston Bay has never been clearer. This blog is meant to give you background on why these remarkable mollusks matter, how local initiatives are making a difference, and how recycling oyster shells is crucial for their future. The Ecological Significance of Oysters Check out how these oyster hometown heroes perform a host of vital functions in Galveston Bay: Water Filtration: Oysters are natural filter feeders. One oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, removing excess sediment and particulates. This helps maintain the bay's water quality and clarity, benefiting other marine life and improving overall ecosystem health. Habitat Formation: Oyster reefs create complex structures that serve as essential habitats for a variety of marine species. These reefs offer shelter and breeding grounds for fish, crabs, and other organisms, fostering a diverse and productive marine community. Shoreline Protection: Oyster reefs act as natural barriers against coastal erosion. Their presence helps stabilize sediments and reduce the impact of storm surges, providing a buffer that protects both natural and human-made shorelines. Recycling Oyster Shells: A Simple Yet Effective Solution A very promising strategy for addressing oyster reef depletion is recycling oyster shells. Organizations from states along the Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf Coast states are implementing this approach. When oysters are consumed in restaurants, their shells can be repurposed to help rebuild reefs. Here’s how this process works and why it’s so effective: Collection and Cleaning: We use our truck and trailer and custom dump truck to collect discarded oyster shells from restaurants that participate in our recycling program, the shells are then dumped at one of our curing sites where they stay quarantined for at least six months to remove any residual contamination. This step is crucial to prevent the spread of disease and ensure the shells are suitable for reef restoration. Reef Restoration: Once fully cured, the shells are transported to designated restoration sites in Galveston Bay. These sites are carefully chosen to optimize reef development and ensure the best conditions for oyster larvae to settle and grow. The recycled shells serve as a foundation for new oyster reefs, providing a substrate where young oysters can attach and thrive. Ongoing Monitoring: Restoration efforts are complemented by regular monitoring to assess the health and growth of the reefs. This data helps refine techniques and ensure that restoration projects are achieving their goals. Our Local Clear Lake, Galveston , and Houston Restaurants are Making a Difference Nearly 40 restaurants from Houston to Galveston are leading the charge in oyster shell recycling. These partnerships have proven invaluable. By participating in our shell recycling program, these establishments contribute directly to the health of Galveston Bay. Take a look at our restaurants who are incorporating shell recycling into their sustainability practices, recognizing the broader environmental benefits of their contributions. The Future of Oysters in Galveston Bay The restoration and protection of oyster reefs in Galveston Bay is a collaborative effort that involves the community, businesses, and conservation organizations. As we continue to recycle oyster shells and support reef restoration initiatives, we enhance the resilience of the bay’s ecosystem and help secure a future where oysters can thrive. In essence, the health of Galveston Bay is intricately linked to the health of its oyster populations. By embracing shell recycling and supporting reef restoration, we contribute to a balanced and thriving ecosystem that benefits everyone—from the smallest marine organisms to the local communities who cherish this unique and beautiful bay. So next time you enjoy oysters, remember that your shell could be part of a larger effort to restore and protect one of our most vital natural resources. Together, we can ensure that Galveston Bay remains a vibrant, healthy, and resilient environment for generations to come.

Galveston Bay, a vital ecosystem and economic hub along the Texas coast , faces recurring threats from natural disasters like hurricanes. To safeguard this region, innovative approaches such as living shorelines have emerged as a crucial defense mechanism. What is a Living Shoreline? Living shorelines represent a sustainable alternative to traditional hard infrastructure like seawalls and bulk heads. They utilize natural elements such as native plants, oyster reefs, and /or rock to stabilize coastal areas. These features not only mitigate erosion but also enhance biodiversity and water quality, making living shorelines ideal for enhancing the resilience of sensitive estuaries like Galveston Bay. Our Kemah Headquarters Living Shoreline  Our 905-foot Living Shoreline was constructed at our Kemah headquarters in the summer of 2021 to reduce wave energy that might otherwise erode the shoreline.  During normal conditions, the rock breakwater slows waves coming in from Bay, allowing sediment to fall out of those waves and build new land between the living shoreline and the existing shoreline. In the newly created calm area between the breakwater and the shoreline, native marsh grass was planted to restore 3 acres of intertidal marsh complex. The marsh also helps slow water flow and stabilize soil along the shoreline, reducing further erosion. During the landfall of Hurricane Beryl, our breakwater reduced wave energy and protected against storm-surge. The marsh vegetation helped stabilize the soil in the marsh and a secondary bulkhead stopped any erosion where the water met the land. These multiple lines of defense were hugely beneficial for our property and shoreline!  Resilience Against Hurricanes Our Gulf Coast is no stranger to hurricanes, which can cause extensive damage to coastal communities and ecosystems. Living shorelines act as resilient defenses by: Absorbing Wave Energy: The natural components of living shorelines dissipate wave energy, reducing the force that reaches inland areas. They also build land by allowing sediment to build between the rock breakwater and the shoreline, providing further protection for the property. Maintaining Shoreline Integrity: Unlike rigid structures that will fail over time, living shorelines adapt to changing environmental pressures, maintaining their effectiveness over time. Supporting Community Resilience: By protecting critical habitats and coastal infrastructure, living shorelines enhance the overall resilience of communities along Galveston Bay. By investing in living shorelines, we not only protect our communities but also ensure the long-term health and vitality of Galveston Bay for generations to come. Are you interested in a living shoreline for your property? A common response to erosion control is to install a bulkhead. Unfortunately, bulkheads can increase erosion on adjacent, unprotected shorelines and are prone to structural failure over time. Galveston Bay Foundation offers property owners assistance in creating individually designed living shoreline structures for your unique situation and property. For more detailed information about living shorelines or the services we provide, contact Sally Clark at sclark@galvbay.org .

HOUSTON, TX PHOTOS 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.

GALVESTON, TEXAS— The Galveston Bay Foundation has permanently protected 63 acres of critical coastal habitat on Galveston Island, known as Redfish Cove. This special piece of land includes coastal wetlands, prairie, and upland buffers, all of which are important to the native wildlife on Galveston Island. The acquisition was funded by the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and supported by the Galveston Bay Estuary Program.  This conservation project supports the West Bay Conservation Initiative to acquire and protect critical habitats surrounding West Galveston Bay before they are lost. “Conserving high-quality habitat around Galveston Bay is extremely important for sustaining our local wildlife and fisheries populations. As we continue to experience growth and development throughout the region, we must invest in the protection of remaining natural areas on Galveston Island," says Galveston Bay Foundation Director of Land Conservation, Matt Singer. Redfish Cove includes over 40 acres of estuarine and tidal wetlands, which provide important habitats to water-dependent wildlife such as the Eastern Black Rail. The land also includes a unique shell hash beach, which is an important nesting resource for shorebirds as well as Diamondback Terrapin turtles. By conserving these vital habitats, Galveston Bay Foundation is also protecting important corridors for marsh migration. As sea level rise threatens to drown wetlands, natural upland buffers are needed for coastal habitats, and the wildlife that depend on them, to migrate to in the future. As the name suggests, Redfish Cove contains high-quality fishery habitat for many commercially valuable species, including the namesake redfish, alongside seagrass beds that are home to sea turtles. “As Galveston Island continues to grow, it is important to conserve open space across the island to preserve the culture of the island. We all love the island for its open space and habitat and natural beauty. While the habitat benefits are important, keeping this tract undeveloped will also help maintain a piece of that culture,” said Galveston Bay Foundation President, Bob Stokes. To improve wildlife habitat values within Redfish Cove, Galveston Bay Foundation will conduct habitat management including establishing maritime forests, removing invasive species, and creating new oyster reefs. These activities will benefit migratory birds that visit Galveston Island and marine life within West 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.

Houston, TX (November 2, 2023) – Today, Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) and Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) have released the 2023 Galveston Bay Report Card , an annual citizen-driven, scientific analysis of the health of Galveston Bay. The Galveston Bay Report Card looks at data and trends found in the Bay and surrounding watersheds, an area spanning more than 7,118 square miles, and including communities in Galveston, Sugar Land, Conroe, and beyond. Originally developed in 2015 through community input and engagement, the Galveston Bay Report Card seeks to ensure that the communities in and around Galveston Bay have a voice in shaping the information they receive about the Bay’s health. Overall, the Report Card’s yearly findings aim to identify and communicate the challenges, opportunities, and areas where the Bay needs community support. The Report Card also seeks to inspire people to take action to protect and preserve the Bay for future generations to come. Lisa Scobel, GBF’s Marine Debris Programs Coordinator, explains, “An integral part of the Galveston Bay Report Card is ensuring that we continue to listen and engage with the communities that live and work near Galveston Bay, since ultimately, they are the ones most impacted by its health. This year, we continued this commitment by working with the crabbing community in Chambers County, and as a result, we are working on materials written in Vietnamese, including a brochure, educational handout, and translated Galveston Bay Report Card website, to continue those conversations, and help tailor the Report Card to meet community needs.” The 2023 Galveston Bay Report Card’s results are based on analyzing data collected throughout 2022 on 18 ecosystem indicators. These indicators are organized into six categories: water quality; pollution events and sources; wildlife; habitat; human health risks; and coastal change. Each of these categories and their underlying indicators are graded like a school report card from “A” to “F”, with “A” meaning the indicator is in excellent condition, and “F” meaning it is in critical condition. Some indicators can also receive an “I” where there is insufficient data available to provide a grade. This year, the Report Card’s notable findings were in the areas of water quality, wildlife, and coastal changes as follows: Water Quality Most categories received an “A”. Overall, the levels of nutrients and dissolved oxygen found in the 2022 water samples were at acceptable levels for supporting diverse and healthy aquatic life. The water quality issues that do arise are primarily due to runoff and wastewater from human activity. Some watersheds received lower grades, such as Barker Reservoir, which received a “C” for nitrogen and an “F” for phosphorus. As the “F” grade is considered critical, the current levels of phosphorous could likely negatively impact fish and wildlife in the water and action is required to reduce these levels. Too much of these nutrients can lead to algae blooms, which can deplete oxygen in the water. To keep excess nutrients out of waterways, it is important to prevent over-fertilization of lawns and to help control excess erosion as soil can carry phosphorus into waterways. Wildlife Most bird populations are holding steady, earning a “C” grade. However, this year, the roseate spoonbill, tri-colored heron, and laughing gull all showed a moderate population decline, going from a “C” to a “D”, while the snowy egret maintained a “D”. Overall, shellfish and finfish categories continued to earn a “C”. Sand seatrout and bay anchovy improved from a “C” to a “B”, and the spot declined from a “B” back to a “C”. Coastal Changes Sea level rise continued to increase, earning an “F” again. As this continues and weather patterns change, alternating between extremes of drought and flood and extreme heat and cold, measurable changes in the physical environment of Galveston Bay should be expected. The water temperature for Winter 2022 was 10% higher than the average values for the previous 15 years for the first time since the creation of the Report Card. This brought the grade down from an “A” to a “B”. Winter water temperature is an important indicator for invasive species and can indicate overall warming that can impact bacteria production and stress Galveston Bay organisms. Water temperatures will need to be monitored for their potential impacts on other indicators. Human Health Risk In most areas of the Bay, seafood continues to remain safe to eat. However, due to oyster fishing closures at the end of 2022, the Seafood Safety grade dropped from a “C” to a “D.” While these specific closures and related oyster consumption concerns are no longer relevant today, it is a reminder to monitor local seafood advisories in your area. HARC’s Research Scientist in Coastal Ecology, Dr. Erin Kinney, highlights, “We are really pleased that we were able to collect more data this year, bringing us closer to pre-Covid levels in terms of our ability to collect and analyze data. The more information we are able to collect, the better we’re able to paint a more complete picture of the health of Galveston Bay. This also helps us to better understand what is impacting the Bay and how best to protect it as a community. Even with all the changes going on around the Bay and its watersheds, our Bay is resilient, and our collective action will help keep it healthy and resilient for years to come.” In addition to providing a yearly snapshot of the state of the Bay, the Galveston Bay Report Card provides several tools, suggestions, and resources to show people how they can play a role in keeping the Bay healthy. The Galveston Bay Report Card website, www.galvbaygrade.org, provides information on how to recycle, reduce trash, and tackle pollution. The What You Can Do tool provides practical tips on how to help the Bay based on a person’s interest and availability. The Galveston Bay Foundation’s events page www.galvbay.org/events provides an overview of upcoming events, such as beach clean ups, and other opportunities to get involved. --Ends-- About the Galveston Bay Foundation Established in 1987, Galveston Bay Foundation is a nonprofit organization that serves as the leading voice for the Bay. The mission of the Galveston Bay Foundation is to preserve and protect Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come. You will find Galveston Bay Foundation in schools, communities, on the water, and on the ground, working in six main program areas: education, habitat restoration, water protection, land conservation, advocacy, and research. For further information, contact us at 281.332.3381, visit galvbay.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram . About Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) HARC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research hub providing independent analysis on energy, air, water, resilience, and climate equity. Its research activities support the implementation of policies and technologies that promote sustainability based on scientific principles. HARC applies science to drive solutions for a sustainable and equitable future. For further information, visit HARCresearch.org or connect via Instagram , LinkedIn , Facebook , or Twitter .