$75,000 contribution from CCA Texas
makes an impact on the project’s initial phase
Corpus Christi, Texas – The Department of Life Sciences at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies began the restoration of eight-acres of oyster reef, in two different locations, on Wednesday, Aug 28, 2013.
The project is coordinated by Dr. Jennifer Pollack, Assistant Professor of Marine Biology and Gail Sutton, Assistant Director of the Harte Research Institute as part of the “Sink Your Shucks” initiative.
Using barges, they plan to expand the current oyster reef in Aransas Bay adjacent to Goose Island State Park and in Copano Bay with oyster shells collected from local restaurants. This project is funded by the Coastal Conservation Association Texas, Gulf of Mexico Foundation, Inc., National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstistration. The recycled shell was obtained with grants from the Texas General Land Office, Coastal Management Program. This restoration effort can be viewed from Stinky Beach at Goose Island State Park.
On Friday August 30, 2013, the press will have a chance to view two large “oyster reefs” being hauled out on barges and put down in the water with a large scoop in Cove Harbor, Rockport-Fulton.
Since 2009, CCA Texas’ Habitat Today for Fish Tomorrow has contributed $2,429,600 to similar conservation efforts along the Texas Gulf Coast.
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