This project would protect and provide public access to 350 acres of wetlands and marsh in Oyster Bay. These wetlands consist primarily of black needlerush and salt grass, with some sloughs interspersed throughout the marsh, and pine flatwoods located to the east. Oyster Bay and its wetlands serve as an important nursery area for economically important fish and shellfish such as white shrimp, brown shrimp, blue crab, redfish, spotted sea trout, and others. The marsh area also provides habitat for resident and migrating birds and other wildlife. The project would also restore 10 acres of drainage systems entering the wetlands, which have become compromised by siltation from upstream development and invasive plant species.
PROJECT COST: $8,021,180
LEAD ORGANIZATION: City of Gulf Shores
PARTNERS: Erie Hall Meyer Charitable Fund
Additional Benefits:
- Acres Supporting Recreation: 350
- Potential Population Benefited: 5,000
- Tons/Year Carbon Storage: 800
