In 2008, sediment from Hurricane Ike destroyed up to 60 percent of the oyster reefs in Galveston Bay. In 2017, Hurricane Harvey’s large influx of fresh water caused oyster mortality rates in the bay ranging from 50 to 100 percent. Galveston’s East Bay was particularly badly affected by Hurricane Harvey.
This project will result in on-the-ground restoration of up to 400 acres of oyster reef in Galveston Bay. This project would build off of a NRDA study identifying the best locations and sizes for reef restoration as well as a small-scale ‘source and sink’ project funded by NFWF.
PROJECT COST: $14,300,000
LEAD ORGANIZATION: TPWD
PARTNERS: TGLO
Additional Benefits:
- Acres supporting recreational fishing: 400+
