The Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF), with support from the NOAA Marine Debris Program, is removing marine debris from navigable waters and habitat areas of Galveston Bay, its sub-bays, and tributaries.

Type of Project: Community-based Marine Debris Removal Grant

Region: Gulf of Mexico

Project Dates: September 2016 - December 2017

Who is involved?
With the support of a NOAA Marine Debris Program Community-based Marine Debris Removal Grant, Galveston Bay Foundation is facilitating the removal of large marine debris from Chocolate Bayou, Texas, with the assistance of the Texas General Land Office (GLO).

What is the project and why is it important?
Abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs) and other large marine debris items can cause many problems in marine environments. They can harm or displace valuable habitats such as intertidal marsh, oyster reefs, and sand and mud flats, as well as restrict access to these habitats for marine species. ADVs can also pose a hazard to navigation, and some vessels may be abandoned with fuel or oil still onboard, creating the potential for hazardous materials to be released into the marine environment.

This project is working to improve the habitat and access in Galveston Bay (including its sub-bays and tributaries) by removing marine debris from this area. By removing this debris, including large items such as ADVs, this project is working to enhance marsh and open water habitats for fisheries production, improve water flow and circulation, allow safer access to open water areas for boaters and anglers, and improve the Bay’s appearance for all citizens.