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.

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.