Rebuilding Goose Island marsh
Dozens of CCA Texas volunteers from across the state recently spent a day transplanting marsh grass at the Goose Island State Park Marsh Restoration Project in Rockport. The project, coordinated by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), is restoring more than 20 acres of saltwater marsh along the Lamar Peninsula that has been steadily eroding since the 1960s.
Park Manager Stormy Reeves and Project Coordinator Kay Jenkins began the day with an overview of the project and a Q&A session. Armed with a greater appreciation of the marsh and its importance, volunteers then went to work transplanting previously prepared plants.
“It was hard work but extremely gratifying,” said Aggieland Chapter President Sam Gaertner. “To have an opportunity to give back to the community and the resource is one of the primary reasons I am involved with CCA Texas. My fellow chapter members and I are extremely proud to be able to take part in such a worthwhile project.”
When all was said and done, the day was deemed a tremendous success. Approximately 1,860 plugs of grass were transplanted, covering three islands in the eastern part of the marsh. Further plantings will take place as conditions allow.
“The Goose Island team is grateful for the time and effort of the volunteers,” said Reeves. “Not only is it an educational experience and an opportunity to give back to the resource, the hours spent and the number of plants transplanted help in the grant matching process that help secure necessary funds for restoration projects such as this one.”
CCA Texas has contributed $25,000 to the project through the Habitat Today for Fish Tomorrow (HTFT) initiative.
“CCA Texas and HTFT are proud to be a part of this important project,” said HTFT Director John Blaha. “Not only does HTFT provide funding opportunities for these types of projects, but they are an excellent opportunity for CCA Texas volunteers to take a hands-on role in the restoration process of Texas’ coastal resources.”