Posts Tagged ‘CCA Building Conservation’
CCA Building Conservation Program and partners set to reclaim Louisiana marsh
TERREBONNE PARISH, LA – CCA’s Building Conservation Habitat Program, in partnership with Shell Oil Company, Terrebonne Parish Government, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, America’s Wetlands, Entergy and Enterprise Products, will launch a restoration project later this month to rebuild part of the coastline in Terrebonne Parish utilizing the unique “Floating Islands” product.
With just slivers of marsh remaining in some areas along the coast, the restoration project will use the Floating Islands’ matrix, which is made of recycled plastic, to plant native species and allow them to grow a root system to the water bottom. The plants will trap sediments and eventually grow toward and tie into the remaining marsh, strengthening it into a sustainable, flourishing mass.
“This is a great initiative where students from local schools – Pointe Aux Chene Elementary and Montegut Middle School – and other local volunteers will be participating to save their marsh,” said John Walther, chairman of CCA Louisiana’s Habitat Committee. “The Floating Island matrix is designed to give the plants a better anchor to the bottom and increase the likelihood that they will take hold and begin to grow outward. The ultimate goal is to find a way to increase the amount of marsh we have by tying these new plants into existing marsh. We’re going to fight to take our marsh back one foot at a time.”
The project is the first to use “floating islands” technology, developed by Martin EcoSystems, in an open-water application in the marine environment, although the technique has been used for shoreline stabilization in conjunction with hurricane protection levees in south Louisiana. Plans call for about 1,500 linear feet of the islands to be installed in this project using two types of marsh grass – smooth cord in the center and seashore paspalum on the edges – to create a habitat component.
“The plants are installed in the matrix onshore and then the matrix is moved to the water for installation. More planting matrix can be added in later stages to expand the area,” explained Walther. “This is a relatively new technique and it holds more promise for shoreline protection than efforts utilizing recycled Christmas trees, for example. This method is also more economical than traditional planting methods and there are plenty of places we could use something cheap and effective along our disappearing coastline.”
CCA members, local students, Shell employees and other volunteers will gather Sept. 23-24 to prepare the mats, each of which is 5 feet by 8 feet and can hold 50 to 60 plants. For those who prefer to pitch in without getting muddy, the public is invited to purchase additional plants for the Terrebonne “Floating Islands” Restoration Project by visiting the CCA Louisiana web site at this link: http://www.ccalouisiana.com/cca11/news/369-floating-island-project.
Both the CCA Building Conservation Habitat Program and the Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government have each pledged $50,000 for the project, Entergy has pledged $30,000 and America’s Wetland has donated $10,000 in logistical support, tents, media transport, meals and refreshments.
###
The Building Conservation Program was created to provide funding for marine habitat conservation and restoration projects. Thanks to support from Shell Oil Company, program funds are combined with local CCA chapter network volunteer efforts to identify and organize conservation projects, engaging local communities to work together for marine conservation.
In the “floating islands” concept, plant roots grow through the island into the water column below. As water passes through the network of hanging roots underneath the floating matrix, the plant roots remove nutrients and pollutants in the water. These same nutrients provide the food source that the plants need for growth and the result is a “concentrated wetland” effect. Images provided by Martin EcoSystems.
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, Louisiana habaitat, marsh restoration
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | No Comments »
Project will be largest inshore permitted reef in Alabama
MOBILE, AL – CCA Alabama and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Marine Resources Division, have announced a partnership to complete the massive Bayou Cour Reef in Bon Secour Bay. The Bayou Cour Reef is a proposed 34-acre reef located about one mile north of the Intracoastal Waterway in the Bon Secour Bay arm of Mobile Bay.
The $163,000 project is being made possible with funds from the Marine Resources Division (MRD), a $55,000 donation from the CCA Building Conservation Habitat Program, and through donations from other sources, including CCA Alabama’s license tag program. The initial phase of the project, a rip-rap circle to contain limestone and oyster shells in the main reef, was begun by MRD in June 2011. CCA’s donations will be used to complete the first phase of the project.
“We are thrilled to partner with MRD to build yet another inshore reef in Alabama waters,” CCA Alabama Chairman Edwin Lamberth said. “Projects like this allow recreational anglers to give something directly back to the resource. We expect that the reef will become a highly productive and popular destination for inshore anglers, and we certainly expect it to be a benefit to the economies of the surrounding communities.”
The reef will be the largest permitted inshore reef in Alabama waters to date. Nearby reefs include the Fish River Reef and the Shellbank Reef, which have provided excellent finfish habitat and sport fishing opportunities. CCA Alabama has been a part of building numerous inshore reefs and enhancing fishing habitat in Alabama’s waters since the state chapter was founded in 1982.
Chris Blankenship, Director of the Marine Resources Division, and Chief Biologist Kevin Anson spearheaded the project on behalf of the state.
“We are always grateful to organizations like CCA that are committed to enhancing our marine resources here in Alabama. Donations like these make the completion of these projects possible, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with CCA, Shell and the Building Conservation Habitat Program,” said Blankenship.
“This project combines the grassroots strength of CCA with the resources of Shell and the Building Conservation program to allow our members to enhance Gulf resources in truly significant ways for both today’s anglers and for generations of anglers to come,” said Pat Murray, president of CCA National.
In December of 2010, Shell Oil Company announced a $1.5 million contribution to the CCA Building Conservation Habitat Program. Since then, the CCA program has contributed almost $400,000 to habitat projects in Gulf Coast states that were impacted with the oil spill last summer.
For more information, contact CCA Alabama at 251-478-3474. A map of the reef and its location is pasted below and can also be found at www.outdooralabama.com/fishing/saltwater/where/ramps-reefs.pdf .
Tags: artificial reef, bon secour reef, cca alabama, CCA Building Conservation
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | 1 Comment »
CCA, LDWF and partners complete historic project at
Independence Island Reef
The 
Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) have completed construction on Independence Island Reef, believed to be the largest limestone inshore artificial reef project ever in Louisiana. Work crews finished the job on Monday afternoon.
“This project is the result of nearly two years of hard work and dedication by CCA volunteers, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and NOAA,” said David Cresson, CCA Louisiana Executive Director. “We are so appreciative of all of them for their incredible commitment to this important project. Anglers and their families will enjoy the benefits of this reef for generations.”
“The recreational fishing industry has sustained a number of challenges over the last six years – hurricanes, the Gulf oil spill and recent flood waters from the Mississippi River have and will continue 
to impact our inshore reefs along Louisiana’s coast,” said LDWF Assistant Secretary Randy Pausina. “Projects like this one are an essential component in restoring our recreational fisheries. We are incredibly grateful for Governor Jindal, Secretary Barham, CCA and of all our partners for their leadership in what is an essential effort to rebuild areas along our coast that have been damaged by erosion.”
Nearly 8,000 tons of limestone were dropped from barges onto four acres about three miles Northeast of Grand Isle, where Independence Island was once located. The total site acreage is more than 50 acres. The center of the reef is located at 29° 18′ 26.98″ N, -89° 56′ 01.01″W and will be marked by several mooring buoys. The buoys will be deployed later this month.
Cresson also thanked a number of additional partners who helped make the project possible, namely Shell Oil Company, The Paul Candies Family, Vulcan Materials and Bertucci 
Contractors.
“Without their generosity and their commitment to conservation, this project would not have been possible,” Cresson said.
Shell Oil Company made a lead gift to CCA’s Building Conservation Program and helped announce the project last December.
“Shell is proud to have been part of this project through CCA’s Building Conservation Program,” said John Hollowell, Executive Vice President, Deep Water for Shell Upstream Americas. “Shell remains committed to the Gulf Coast and to the people who live there, so the Independence Island Reef project was a great way for us to give back.”
Funding for the project was also made 
available through LDWF’s Artificial Reef Development Fund.
CCA Conservation Committee Chairman John Walther says he expects the reef to start holding fish in the coming months.
“Reefs we have built in the past have proven to provide great habitat for our favorite species, like speckled trout and redfish,” said Walther. “I expect anglers will be landing nice catches from the new reef before the end of the summer.”
The CCA Building Conservation Program was created to provide funding for local, state and national marine fisheries and habitat conservation and restoration projects. Program funds are directed to CCA state chapters for grassroots-driven projects.
“Building Conservation combines the 
grassroots strength of CCA with the resources of Shell to allow our members to take the program to new levels,” said Pat Murray, CCA president. “It is an exciting time in marine conservation, and the restoration projects that will come from this initiative will play a key role in the enhancement of Gulf resources for today’s anglers, and for generations of anglers to come.”
###
For more information contact Olivia Watkins at 225-610-8660 or owatkins@wlf.la.gov. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.
CCA Louisiana is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the state. With more than 30,000 members and volunteers in 24 local chapters, CCA has been active in state, national and international fisheries management issues since 1977. Visit CCA at www.CCALouisiana.com for more information, on Facebook or Twitter @CCALouisiana.
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, Independence Island, Louisiana artificial reef
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | No Comments »
Latest reefing effort brings partners together to create near-shore reef fish habitat
Coastal Conservation Association has announced plans for a $100,000 reef project off the Texas mid-coast, funded by CCA Texas, CCA National’s Building Conservation Habitat Program, Shell, Shimano and Frabill, in partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Artificial Reef Program. This latest step in CCA’s reefing program will bring valuable reef fish habitat and angling opportunities in the heart of the Texas coast at a time when it is needed most.
“In dealing with Gulf reef fish issues, working on advocacy issues alone is not enough,” said Robby Byers, executive director of CCA Texas. “Creating new, viable habitat is an equally important priority, and our membership is committed to putting significant structure in the water that will be a magnet for both fish and anglers. We are proud to be building a string of reefs along the coast, and proud to be working with corporate partners like Shimano and Shell to improve marine habitat and angling opportunities.”
“CCA does a first-rate job of initiating progressive efforts on behalf of people who fish in coastal regions,” said Phil Morlock, Director, Environmental Affairs, Shimano American Corp. “Thanks to CCA and Shell, this Texas reef project will provide great fishing opportunities for generations of anglers to enjoy and we are pleased to be a partner in this conservation effort.”
CCA’s habitat efforts combine both state chapter and national components of the organization. Last August, CCA Texas funded $50,000 for the expansion of the Vancouver Reef off Freeport, and has earmarked another $50,000 for a Port Mansfield reefing project in the fall. In December 2010, the CCA National Building Conservation Habitat Program announced a $1.5 million contribution from Shell Oil Company, with the first $250,000 going towards the Independence Island Reef in Louisiana’s Barataria Bay. The Building Conservation Habitat Program has contributed $60,000 to the Texas mid-coast reefing effort and is making plans for another reefing project in Alabama later this year.
“You have to go through a lot of hoops to get projects like these off the ground and into the water, but we are building real momentum with the habitat program. Tons of material are going into the water, and the pace is picking up,” said CCA National President Pat Murray. “When we get recreational anglers, private companies and state agencies all working together, we can accomplish great work.”
###
CCA is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the nation. With almost 100,000 members in 17 state chapters, CCA has been active in state, national and international fisheries management issues since 1977. For more information visit the CCA Newsroom at www.JoinCCA.org.
Tags: artificial reefs, CCA Building Conservation, habitat
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | 1 Comment »
State of Louisiana
Office of the Governor
GOVERNOR BOBBY JINDAL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 14 2010
Press Office: Melissa Sellers, Kyle Plotkin
Contact: 225-342-8006, (c) 225-328-3755
BATON ROUGE – Today, Governor Bobby Jindal joined the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and Shell Oil Company to announce a new public-private partnership – between the recreational angling community, private businesses and the state – to assist in CCA’s ongoing Building Conservation Habitat Program.Shell has committed 1.5 million dollars to CCA’s Building Conservation Habitat Program.
Governor Jindal announced that Independence Island – formerly an emergent island in Barataria Bay near Grand Isle – will be one of the first beneficiaries of the Building Conservation Program. Independence Island was formerly one of Louisiana’s popular fishing destinations, but due to coastal erosion and subsidence, the Island has sunk to the point that it is no longer a viable fisheries habitat. Governor Jindal said the state’s new partnership with CCA and Shell will help resurrect the treasured marine life habitat associated with Independence Island.
Governor Jindal said, “Louisiana’s coastal environment has faced many challenges, some man-made and some natural. This makes it increasingly important for us to find innovative ways to restore and enhance the coastal areas that support state’s economy. Our marsh is the heart and soul of Louisiana. We have a sporting heritage second to none and a long, proud connection to our land, water and resources. Louisiana sportsmen know better than anyone the need to give something back to the environment so that we can continue to enjoy it while preserving this heritage for our children and grandchildren. That’s what makes this announcement today so inspiring – CCA’s Building Conservation Habitat Program is a long-term commitment from the angling community to the incredible natural resources of Louisiana. Partnerships like the one announced today are a critical component for helping our citizens get back on their feet after the oil spill and preserving the beauty of coastal Louisiana for generations to come.”
David Cresson, Executive Director and CEO of CCA Louisiana said, “Today’s announcement is a great example of how when private enterprise, members of the community and the state work together – they can accomplish great work. This reef will create new habitat for a large variety of marine species and will provide recreational fishing opportunities in an area that had been heavily affected by coastal erosion and other factors. I applaud Shell and Governor Jindal for working with CCA to spearhead this project, and I look forward to our continued work in conserving and enhancing our coastal fisheries.”
John Hollowell, Executive Vice President, Deep Water, Upstream Americas, Shell Energy Resources Company said, “Shell has a long history of support for environment and habitat projects, and our thousands of employees in Louisiana are excited about the possibilities of this partnership. CCA members have an amazing track record of conservation work that sets them apart. We believe in the organization and are committed to doing our part to ensure that the Building Conservation Habitat Program has the tools to bring significant marine habitat restoration projects from concept to reality.”
Patrick Murray, president of CCA National said, “This partnership combines the grassroots strength of CCA with the resources of Shell to allow our members to take the Building Conservation Habitat Program to new levels. It is an exciting time in marine conservation, and the restoration projects that will come from this initiative will play a key role in the enhancement of Gulf resources for both today’s anglers and for generations of anglers to come.”
The project calls for installing two reefs covering four acres at Independence Island this spring, each reef consisting of 3,500 tons of limestone to provide hard-structure habitat for marine fisheries. Almost immediately after installation, these reefs will start attracting marine organisms and forage fish, which will draw recreational species and provide new opportunities for anglers in Grand Isle.
CCA worked with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) to permit a 55-acre site for future reef development that includes the original footprint of Independence Island. The Independence Island Reef is being made possible by a $250,000 donation from the CCA Building Conservation Habitat Program and matching funds from the state.
CCA has a highly successful artificial reef program with reefs completed in Lake Pelto, Vermilion Bay, Calcasieu Lake, and Lake Ponchartrain. In in-shore coastal areas, this program has used crushed limestone to construct low-relief “shell-pad” type structures to enhance habitats and fisheries resources.
###
Tags: artificial reef, CCA Building Conservation, Governor Jindal, Independence Island
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | No Comments »
Sunglasses manufacturer hosts college event to benefit Coastal Conservation Association
MOBILE, AL - What happens when you bring together a couple of good bands, a cool sunglasses company, a few thousand college students and a great cause? You get a wildly successful Party with A Purpose hosted by Costa Sunglasses that raised more than $24,000 for Gulf habitat restoration in the wake of last summer’s oil spill.
For the third year in a row, Costa Sunglasses organized its U. of Blue Greekfest event on the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa. The event, labeled as “A Party with A Purpose,” brought together the Interfraternity and Panhellenic councils to put on an extraordinary student-tailored concert event in August 2010, and this year the proceeds were dedicated to marine conservation.
“This particular event was part of our college program that we’ve had for years. Each event is designed to raise money for a particular cause and with everything that happened in the Gulf this summer, it was a natural fit for this event to donate all the proceeds to Coastal Conservation Association Alabama,” said Nicole Ralston, marketing manager for Costa Sunglasses.
In previous years, Costa’s U. of Blue program has hosted several smaller events at different locations, but this year organizers decided to throw one huge event and the results exceeded everyone’s expectations.
“It was just amazing. More than 8,000 students attended the event this year, which is by far the largest crowd we have ever had,” Ralston said. “Without a purpose, it’s just another party, so it’s clear that the health of the Gulf of Mexico means something to young people today. There is a great deal of concern there, and we are just glad we were able to partner with the University of Alabama to direct these funds to an organization that is committed to working towards a better future for the Gulf.”
CCA Alabama chairman Edwin Lamberth said that since the beginning of the Deepwater Horizon disaster, CCA’s Building Conservation Habitat Program has been evaluating habitat restoration projects that would help restore impacted areas of the coastal environment.
“Alabama’s anglers have a long history of giving back to the resources that we all cherish,” he said. “We will be applying that experience to find partners and organize our members so that we can leverage this donation into a truly meaningful habitat project that will show a good return on the incredible generosity of Costa and the students at the University of Alabama.”
Costa U. of Blue Greekfest 2010 – Party for the Fish!
###
Coastal Conservation Association is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the nation. With almost 100,000 members in 17 state chapters, CCA has been active in state, national and international fisheries management issues since 1977. www.JoinCCA.org
Costa Sunglasses – As the leading manufacturer of the world’s clearest polarized performance sunglasses, Costa offers superior lens technology and unparalleled fit and durability. Still handcrafted today in Florida, Costa creates what has been referred to as the highest quality, best performing sunglasses on the planet for outdoor enthusiasts. For Costa, conservation is all about sustainable fishing. Costa works with partners around the world to help increase awareness and influence policy so that both the fish and fishermen of tomorrow will have healthy waters to enjoy. Costa encourages others to help in any way they can. Costa began their U. of Blue College Tour in 2004.
www.costadelmar.com www.facebook.com/costasunglasses
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, Costa, marine habitat
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | No Comments »
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Laurie Fried
West Marine
831.761.6944
West Marine funding to support habitat work of non-profit organizations across the country
WATSONVILLE, Calif. (October 11, 2010) – West Marine, the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, today announced the recipients of their first annual Marine Conservation Grants program. Grants for a total amount of $30,000 are being awarded to non-profit organizations throughout the U.S. who are working to “improve and protect marine habitat,” which is part of West Marine’s mission. This year’s grant recipients reside in California, Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, South Carolina and Texas.
“We are proud to support recreational boating and fishing groups and marine environmental groups that put our resources first,” said Randy Repass, Chairman of the Board and Founder of West Marine. “The work of these organizations will benefit recreational fishing and sustainable commercial fishing as well as the goals of most marine environmental groups.”
The Recipients of the West Marine Conservation Grants for 2010:
1. California & Hawaii – The Ocean Foundation Tag-a-Giant Fund: The Ocean Foundation’s Tag-A-Giant Fund supports research on highly migratory fish and promotes innovative policy and conservation initiatives based on this research. Led by Stanford University Professor of Marine Sciences, Dr. Barbara Block, it has played a key role in integrating cutting-edge research into discussions of fisheries policy.
Funds will be utilized to support the Great Marlin Race conservation research project. During the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, West Marine will sponsor a pop-up satellite archival tag for deployment on Pacific blue marlin. Findings from a previous race provided the longest electronic tracks ever measured in billfish.
2. Huntington Beach, California – Get Inspired: Funds will be used to continue Kelp forest ecosystem restoration by allowing Huntington Beach students to grow white sea bass in their classrooms and then restock them in coastal Huntington Beach. By being involved in the restoration of this species, students have a stake in the overall health of the oceans. The students take ownership of the fish that they help to raise. They actually “do” something to make the world a better place instead of just learning about it. This project aims to create Ocean Stewards and healthy kelp forests.
3. Sebastian, Fort Pierce, and Indian River Lagoon, Florida – Marine Cleanup Initiative, Inc (MCII): This organization was founded to clean our waterways of marine debris such as fishing line, plastics, casting nets, bottles, cans, anchors, batteries, etc. MCII uses volunteer divers, boat owners, commercial divers, cranes and larger vessels.
Funds will be used to chart the waters set aside for crab traps and clam farming. Derelict traps and abandoned nets will be identified and retrieved. Under direction of Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission aquatic creatures will be released and disturbed habitat will be restored.
4. Jacksonville, Florida – TISRI: TISRI stands for “Think It, Sink It, Reef It” and is focused on the creation and promotion of artificial reefs. Fishing line and trash creates an endangerment potential for all marine life. Funding will support “trash harvesting” dives. Reefs will be chosen based on local knowledge of fishing locations.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana – Marine Research and Assistance Council: The Citizen Sailor Program educates and equips coastal and blue water mariners to conduct basic scientific air and water sampling to be shared with environmental research organizations. Funding will be used to conduct sampling and to monitor the effects of the BP oil spill. Data will be shared with the Lake Ponchatrain Basin Foundation and the University of New Orleans.
6. New Orleans, Louisiana - Friends of the West End: This non-profit corporation is dedicated to the restoration of green spaces and shorelines on West End Park. Funding has been provided to clear tidal flow culverts that are heavily silted. This will have a positive impact on breeding grounds for multiple species of fish and crab.
7. South Carolina: Coastal Conservation Association (CCA): CCA South Carolina is the oldest, largest and one of the most respected non-profit marine conservation organization in South Carolina. As a grass-roots organization, 12 local CCA chapters, located in every corner of the state are made up of thousands of recreational saltwater anglers whose passion centers on the state’s marine resources. Funding will support the Topwater Action Campaign, which focuses on oyster recycling, reef restoration and creation, water quality and education.
8. Texas – Coastal Conservation Association (CCA): CCA Texas has 50,000 members and the Nueces Bay Causeway marsh restoration project is a joint effort with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program (CBBEP) to restore 160 acres of intertidal marsh habitat.
Funding will support a “grass planting day” during which volunteers can assist in planting. This critical marsh will provide essential habitat for shrimp, crabs, juvenile fish, as well as feeding grounds for birds and larger fish.
9. Orange County, California – Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA): Ocean Defenders Alliance strives to make Southern California’s coastal waters safer for marine wildlife by reducing dangerous man-made objects in vital habitat, focusing on abandoned commercial fishing gear that poses serious threats to numerous species. In the process of derelict gear removal, ODA carefully liberates wildlife found trapped in nets and pots that needlessly continue to capture and kill long after being lost by the fishing industry. Funding is targeted at removing derelict gear around the Channel Islands in Southern California.
The Marine Conservation Grants are awarded through a formal application process in which interested organizations must submit their proposal directly to West Marine. All applications are reviewed by the Marine Conservation Action Team (MCAT). Those applying must show sound financial policies and management with a key focus in marine conservation, habitat restoration and sustainable fisheries. These activities may cover water clean-up, habitat protection and restoration, ocean science and conservation projects that relate to key marine species, water quality, sustainable ocean use, etc.
Since 1994, West Marine has donated over $4,500,000 to non-profit organizations that support youth boating, boating safety and the marine environment. For more information about the Marine Conservation Grants program, please visit www.westmarine.com.
About West Marine
West Marine, the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, has more than 330 company-owned stores located in 38 states, Puerto Rico and Canada and two franchised stores located in Turkey. Our call center and Internet channels offer Customers over 60,000 products plus the convenience of exchanging catalog and Internet purchases at our Store locations. Our Port Supply division is one of the largest wholesale distributors of marine equipment serving boat manufacturers, marine services, commercial vessel operators and government agencies. For more information on West Marine’s products and store locations, or to start shopping, visit westmarine.com or call 1-800-BOATING (1-800-262-8464).
###
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, marine habitat, west marine
Posted in CCA Building Conservation | No Comments »
$5,000 contribution kicks off efforts to restore Gulf habitat through Sportsman Fund
Gulf of Mexico habitat restoration efforts received another shot in the arm this week when Sportsman Channel announced a $5,000 contribution directly to the Sportsman Fund, a special fund it created with Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) to benefit Gulf Coast habitat in the wake of this summer’s oil spill. The pledge is in addition to the Sportsman Channel’s commitment to funnel this year’s proceeds from the monthly fee of every new Sportsman Channel SD and HD a la carte subscriber on DISH Network to the Sportsman Fund.
“A healthy and vibrant Gulf of Mexico is important to all of us, and we are thankful to have a partner like Sportsman Channel that has such a clear vision for what needs to be done over the long term to achieve that goal,” said Patrick Murray, CCA president. “Their generosity in not only creating the Sportsman Fund, but also seeding it with $5,000 shows that this company is run by sportsmen, for sportsmen, to promote the tradition of conservation.”
Sportsman Channel, the leader in outdoor TV for the American Sportsman, announced earlier this month that the network is available as an a la carte option on DISH Network Ch. 395. To help bring awareness and support to Gulf restoration efforts, DISH Network offered a free preview of Sportsman Channel during September. Outdoor enthusiasts can subscribe to Sportsman Channel a la carte by visiting www.dish.com.
“Continual funding of the Sportsman Fund is very important to us to ensure it stays top-of-mind among the media and our community alike,” said Gavin Harvey, Sportsman Channel CEO. “We have more plans for this fund; the DISH Network collaboration is just one piece of the puzzle. The Gulf may not get back to its original form – our intentions are to make it better.”
CCA has worked closely with government and regulatory agencies since the beginning of the Gulf oil disaster to ensure the Gulf’s habitats, fishing industries, marine life and resources are adequately represented and supported. CCA’s history and experience in marine habitat restoration and coastal conservation will continue to be a vital component in the recovery and restoration of Gulf marine resources.
“We continue to see signs of progress and hope across the Gulf of Mexico, but there is still much we can do to help ensure a steady recovery through research and habitat restoration,” said Murray. “The real work starts now, and thanks to the Sportsman Channel, CCA volunteers along the Gulf Coast will be even more prepared to implement projects that best benefit the resource.”
–30–
SPORTSMAN CHANNEL: Launched in 2003, Sportsman Channel is the only television and digital media company fully devoted to the more than 82 million sportsmen in the United States, delivering entertaining and educational programming focused exclusively on hunting, shooting and fishing activities. Sportsman Channel is now available in HD, check with your local cable or satellite provider. Acquired by InterMedia Outdoors Holdings in 2006, Sportsman Channel reaches 27 million U.S. television households and is a part of the nation’s largest multimedia company targeted exclusively to serving the information and entertainment needs of outdoors enthusiasts. Visit www.thesportsmanchannel.com, follow on Twitter, @SPORTSMANchnl (www.twitter.com/SPORTSMANchnl), become a Fan on Facebook, www.facebook.com/sportsmanchannel and download Sportsman App at www.itunes.com/appstore
ABOUT CCA: Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the nation. With almost 100,000 members in 17 state chapters, CCA has been active in state, national and international fisheries management issues since 1977. CCA’s strength is drawn from the tens of thousands of recreational saltwater anglers who make up its membership. From South Texas to the Puget Sound to the upper reaches of Maine, CCA’s grassroots influence is felt through state capitols, U.S. Congress and, most importantly, in the conservation and restoration of our coastal marine resources. Visit www.JoinCCA.org for more information.
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, marine habitat, Sportsman Fund
Posted in CCA Atlantic States, CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico, CCA Pacific Northwest, CCA South Atlantic | No Comments »
Field & Stream honors CCA volunteer for work leading Louisiana artificial reef program
CCA’s John Walther has been named one of the six finalists for Field & Stream’s 2010 Heroes of Conservation award designed to recognize sportsmen dedicated to the protection of fish and wildlife habitat. Under Walther’s leadership as co chairman of CCA Louisiana’s habitat initiative, the organization has completed five limestone reefs in state waters since 2000 and has another major effort currently underway in Lake Pontchartrain.
“We have worked hard for many years to maintain a sustainable fishery and our efforts are more important than ever now,” says Walther. “Due to coastal erosion, we’re losing a football field of our land every 30 minutes. One way to mitigate these losses and ensure there is future for our fisheries is to restore reef areas and create new ones.”
Nominations for the Heroes of Conservation Award are collected from all over the country and are reviewed by a panel of Field & Stream editors and conservation leaders. The six finalists have been invited to an awards ceremony in Washington DC and are featured in the October issue of Field & Stream magazine. CCA’s Ronnie Luster won the 2006 Hero of Conservation Award for his work launching an abandoned crab trap clean-up program in Texas.
“Habitat creation is a major focus for CCA and the work of people like John and Ronnie shows how our members can make a significant contribution to the future of our fisheries,” said Pat Murray, president of CCA. “John is just a remarkable person and his tenacious effort and vision to see these projects through from concept to completion have created a legacy of conservation that future generations will enjoy and hopefully expand.”
Walther’s first reef project in 2000, at a site that’s known as Bird Island, involved the placement of nearly 8,000 tons of limestone. He is currently involved with a massive reefing project on Lake Pontchartrain that is using recycled concrete from the I-10 Bridge damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
“We don’t know what the long-term effects of the oil spill will be, but one thing’s for certain: Recovery is our only option,” Walther says. “I want to make sure that we continue to have enough locations where people can continue to enjoy the sport that’s such a big part of our way of life down here.”
The winner of the 2010 Hero of Conservation Award will be announced on Oct. 6 2010. Click HERE to see a Field & Stream video about John and CCA Louisiana’s artificial reef program.
###
Coastal Conservation Association is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the nation. With almost 100,000 members in 17 state chapters, CCA has been active in state, national and international fisheries management issues since 1977. For more information visit www.JoinCCA.org.
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, hero of conservation, John Walther, marine habitat
Posted in CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico | 1 Comment »
Remington rebates benefit Building Conservation habitat program
HOUSTON, TX – In a unique partnership between the hunting and angling communities, Remington Arms Company is offering a way for its customers to restore one of our country’s most valuable wildlife habitats through CCA’s Building Conservation Habitat Program. As part of its Fall 2010 Rebate Roundup program, Remington customers will have the option to donate all or a portion of the rebate to marine habitat projects in the Gulf of Mexico.
“We are pleased and honored that Remington sees Building Conservation as a worthy recipient of rebate contributions from its customers,” said Patrick Murray, CCA president. “Hunters and anglers share the same conservation ideals, and we are grateful that Remington is creating a program to help the Gulf when it needs it the most. Those funds will help create the reefs and marshes that future generations of sportsmen will enjoy.”
“Our Fall 2010 Rebate Roundup is the largest rebate program we have ever offered at Remington. By partnering with CCA’s Building Conservation Program, our consumers have the option to donate all or a portion of their rebates to help the restoration of one of our country’s most valuable wildlife habitats – the Gulf Coast,” commented Roy Gifford, Vice President of Brand Management and Research for Remington Arms Company. “We are truly honored to be involved with the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the nation.”
CCA’s Building Conservation Program was created to provide funding for local, state and national marine habitat conservation and restoration projects. Program funds are directed to CCA’s 17 state chapters for grassroots-driven projects like marsh-grass planting, oyster shell recycling and offshore artificial reefs.
“Habitat restoration is not about just enhancing habitat, it is about creating a destination for recreational anglers to access the resource,” said Murray. “Hunters and anglers understand better than anyone the need to give something back to the resource. With partners like Remington, we can restore areas today that will mean more habitat, more fish, and better angling opportunities for the future.”
###
About Remington Arms Company, Inc.
Remington Arms Company, Inc., headquartered in Madison, N.C., designs, produces and sells sporting goods products for the hunting and shooting sports markets, as well as solutions to the military, government and law enforcement markets. Founded in 1816 in upstate New York, the Company is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturers. Remington is the only U.S. manufacturer of both firearms and ammunition products and one of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles. The Company distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 55 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.
Coastal Conservation Association is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the nation. With almost 100,000 members in 17 state chapters, CCA has been active in state, national and international fisheries management issues since 1977. For more information visit the CCA Newsroom at www.JoinCCA.org.
Tags: CCA Building Conservation, marine habitat, Remington
Posted in CCA Atlantic States, CCA Building Conservation, CCA Gulf of Mexico, CCA Pacific Northwest, CCA South Atlantic | No Comments »
