This issue is dedicated to coastal wetlands, which areas surrounding Galveston. Fun fact: Texas has the fifth-largest acreage of wetlands in the United States, encompassing nearly 3.9 million acres of land. The wetlands serve many purposes, from nurseries to wildlife to protecting us from hurricanes and the flooding accompanying them.
I am new to the island but have loved Galveston for many years; I finally decided to make it my home in February 2024, IBC. There is something so comforting about Galveston, whether it be the waves, the people, or the history. This island is a great place to hang your hat.
Because I am new to the island, I had yet to learn about the impact and importance of the surrounding wildlife and wetlands before my involvement in this issue. When our publisher, Janese, tasked me with helping bring this issue to life, I was excited to get to know the land more intimately. I have had the opportunity to read every one of the stories folded into this issue and even had the chance to meet with Karla Klay of Artist Boat to learn about the conservation efforts she is spearheading. I have learned invaluable lessons, and with that knowledge, will personally do more to help protect this uniquely beautiful habitat.
As you dive into this issue, please approach each piece with a fresh perspective. Whether you live on the island or just enjoy it seasonally, getting to know your surroundings is important. Take time to read an issue on the beach, or grab some binoculars and head to the bay for some birdwatching. We are surrounded by beauty and nature, and we must first educate ourselves so that we can protect it for years to come.
A huge thank you goes out to Janese and team, all of the contributors, and to this island that is so very special.
Safavimehr Write us an email or shoot us a comment any time online: CultureClashGalveston.com CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com
Publisher
Janese Maricelli
The ofImportance Wetlands On Galveston Island
BY: CARLA AVILA-MARTINEZ, CLIMATE ACTION PROGRAM
MANAGER, THE SURFRIDER FOUNDATION
WHEN YOU THINK OF GALVESTON ISLAND, THE FIRST IMAGES THAT COME TO MIND ARE PROBABLY SANDY BEACHES AND ROLLING WAVES. But have you ever stopped to consider the importance of our wetlands? These vital habitats often go unnoticed, but they are essential to the health of our environment and community. At Surfrider, we’re passionate about protecting and restoring our coastal ecosystems, and wetlands are a key piece of that puzzle.
What Exactly Are Wetlands?
What Exactly Are Wetlands?
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil all year or during certain seasons. They include marshes, swamps, bogs, and similar environments. These places are teeming with life and are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. Here, on Galveston Island, coastal wetlands play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and protecting shorelines.
Natural Defenders of the Coast
Natural Defenders of the Coast
For a coastal community like Galveston, wetlands are a first line of defense against storms and flooding. They act like giant sponges, absorbing excess water and slowly releasing it, which reduces the risk of flood damage. Wetlands also help prevent erosion by stabilizing the shoreline with their plant roots. This natural protection is invaluable, especially as we face increasing storm intensity due to climate change.
Fighting Climate Change
Fighting Climate Change
Wetlands are powerful allies in the fight against climate change. They are incredibly effective at capturing and storing carbon dioxide, one of the primary greenhouse gasses driving global warming. The plants in wetlands absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and store it in their leaves, stems, roots, and soil. Wetlands annually sequester carbon at a rate ten times greater than mature tropical forests. By preservation and restoration, we can help mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The Interconnected Web of Life
The Interconnected Web of Life
Wetlands are intricately connected to the broader ecosystem. Plants in wetlands filter pollutants from the water, improving water quality for everyone downstream. Insects and other small creatures break down organic matter, recycling nutrients into the soil. Fish and amphibians thrive in these nutrient-rich waters, providing food for birds and mammals. It’s a beautiful, interwoven system where every piece supports the others.
A Sanctuary for Wildlife
A Sanctuary for Wildlife
Wetlands are like nature’s nurseries, providing a safe haven for various species, including fish, amphibians, birds, and countless invertebrates. These areas offer food, shelter, and breeding grounds, making them hotspots for biodiversity.
Wetlands provide a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife that depend on these habitats for survival. Galveston’s commitment to protecting birds is evident in the designation as a Bird City Texas community, a status held since 2021 by Audubon Texas and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Our Collective Responsibility
Our Collective Responsibility
The Surfrider Foundation launched our new Climate Action Program this year, which supports chapters nationwide to help restore coastal ecosystems in their communities, including wetlands. As the program grows, we plan to support restoration efforts in Galveston with the local chapter. There are many ways you can get involved in protecting wetlands. Support conservation and restoration projects in your community, participate in clean-up events, and advocate for policies that protect these areas. Education on the importance of wetlands is also crucial. The more people understand and appreciate these ecosystems, the stronger efforts to protect them will be. They provide essential habitat for wildlife, protect our shores, and help combat climate change. By recognizing their value and working together to protect them, we can ensure these vital habitats continue thriving.
Photos courtesy of Unsplash
TOMATURITY FROMNURSERY The ImportanceofWetland
TOMATURITY FROMNURSERY The
WETLANDS PROVIDE DISTINCTIVE AND CRITICAL HABITATS FOR THOUSANDS OF SPECIES OF ANIMALS, FROM INSECTS TO FISH, BIRDS, MAMMALS, REPTILES, AND AMPHIBIANS. They are home to many endangered and threatened species, and many species of amphibians are dependent on wetlands for reproductive success.
Gulf Coast Wetlands include bays and estuaries, nurseries and spawning areas for marine species, and tidal wetlands, including barrier islands, tidal flats, bays, swamps, and marshes. These coastal areas provide habitat for wildlife and protection from storms that erode the shoreline. Many people are captivated by sea turtles, and residents and visitors on the upper Texas coast often ask about the possibility of seeing one in the wild.
WHAT ROLE DO WETLANDS PLAY IN THE LIFE CYCLE OF A SEA TURTLE, IF ANY?
Numerous species of fish, shrimp, and crabs, important food sources for sea turtles, are found in wetlands. Wetlands improve water quality and store floodwaters, which is equally important to ensure a healthy marine and terrestrial habitat for sea turtles. All species of sea turtles use sandy beaches to lay their eggs, and after various incubation periods (depending on the species), hatchlings leave the nest and head to the ocean. Sea turtles may spend several years in the ocean habitat and return as juveniles to coastal seagrass habitats in the bays and coastal lagoons, where they mature.
For millions of years, sea turtles have contributed to maintaining the health of marine and terrestrial ecosystems by playing a significant role in the marine food chain and conveying energy between marine and coastal habitats. Coastal wetlands are used by sea turtles as nesting sites, and their waters are used for foraging, reproduction, migration, and development habitats.
Help to protect wetlands by encouraging city governments and developers to use permeable surfaces so water may seep slowly into the ground and be aware of zoning changes or drainage projects that would impact wetlands.
BY JOANIE STEINHAUS GULF PROGRAM DIRECTOR, TURTLE ISLAND RESTORATION NETWORK
BY JOANIE STEINHAUS GULF PROGRAM DIRECTOR, TURTLE ISLAND RESTORATION NETWORK
Graphic
Exploring the Virginia
BY LALISE MASON
Peninsula Preserve
THE VIRGINIA POINT PENINSULA PRESERVE, INCLUDING THE O’QUINN I-45 ESTUARY CORRIDOR WETLANDS, IS A LANDSCAPELEVEL CONSERVATION PROPERTY WHOLLY OWNED AND MANAGED BY SCENIC GALVESTON, INC., A 501(C)3 GALVESTONBASED NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION WITH THE MISSION OF PROTECTING VIRGINIA POINT PRAIRIES AND WETLANDS FOR HABITAT CONSERVATION, RESTORATION, AND COMPATIBLE PUBLIC USE.
Since 1992, all-volunteer SCENIC GALVESTON (SG) has been making a tangible difference by purchasing, protecting, restoring, studying, partnering and stewarding nearly 3000 acres of salt marsh and original coastal prairie in the Virginia Point gateway to Galveston, alongside Galveston Bay. SG’s annual volunteer trash cleanups, marsh plantings, bird counts and other activities have led to the logging of 275+ avian species on and around preserve lands. The preserve anchors several Texas Parks and Wildlife Great Texas Birding Classic (GTBC) birding teams, showcasing the positive impact of our collective efforts on the
Photos courtesy of Lalise Mason
The O’Quinn I-45 wetland corridor effort began in 1992, and SG’s roadside salt marshes remain open to the public. During the acquisition of these wetlands, SG also began a restoration campaign, eventually totaling around 80 acres of replacement salt marsh habitat in the corridor, with multiple financial and technical resource partners, including USFWS Coastal Program, TCEQ Galveston Bay Estuary Program, USFWS North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), NRDA Council, The O’Quinn Foundation, Galveston Bay Foundation, EPA/Restore America’s Estuaries Five-Star program, Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, and others. Marsh restoration continues in 2024 with a Texas General Land Office CEPRA grant to design a marsh restoration/shoreline protection project along Jones Bay south of Bayou Vista.
While not open to the general public, The Virginia Point prairie/ wetland complex east of the I-45 Corridor is open to dedicated volunteers, conservation scientists, and students. SG purchased this property from the University of Texas in the early 2000s and constructed a 2-mile living shoreline breakwater complex to prevent ongoing prairie erosion and promote marsh accretion. SG again partnered with resource agency experts and funders for acquisition and shoreline restoration, including Texas General Land Office CIAP and CEPRA, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Gulf Environmental Benefits Fund, USFWS Coastal Program, and Galveston Bay Estuary Program. Ongoing marsh planning involves the NOAA / TNC GulfCorps, Galveston Bay Foundation, and Centerpoint Energy/SG volunteers.
SG is currently undertaking a new prairie management initiative focusing on the Black Rail, which, as of 2020, is threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Virginia Point has a significant colony of this wetlanddependent bird, which occupies the high marshes of Virginia Point. Project partners include Centerpoint Energy, TPWD/GTBC, Texas A&M researchers, and complementary penalty funds from a neighboring superfund site. SG welcomes volunteer and professional interest: scenicgalveston.org or lalise@supldes.com.
WETLANDS ARE MORE IMPORTANT NOW THAN EVER
BY ÉLOS
WETLANDS ARE A NATURAL RESOURCE, AND I WANT TO SEE THEM PROTECTED AND EXPANDED. MORE THAN EVER, WETLAND CONSERVATION IS ESSENTIAL.
In the early 1990s, Walmart opened its superstore, filling in some of the last wetlands on the seawall on Galveston Island near Greens Bayou. The other Walmart located on 61st Street was shut down. During the new Walmart’s construction, my home was located within a mile. The loss of those wetlands, which I had cherished and seen as a part of my home, was a devastating blow. My anger was also directed at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE or the Corps) for their permit for the filling of wetlands. I mistakenly thought those wetlands were or could be protected.
USACE is a federal agency comprised mostly of Army civilians. In addition to its civil works activities (e.g., the seawall), emergency response operations, military construction, environmental restoration operations, and providing recreational opportunities, USACE regulates activities in our Nation’s wetlands. This regulatory authority was promulgated in the 1880s when Congress directed the Corps to prevent dumping and filling in our navigable waterways. Specifically, the Rivers and Harbors Act in 1899 established the Corps’ regulatory permit program to protect navigable waters in the development of harbors and other construction and excavation. In 1972, Section 404 of the Clean Water Act prescribed authority over wetlands and other valuable aquatic areas to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Corps.
Fast forward to present day, and I again live near Walmart, except I have recently gained knowledge I didn’t possess back then. What I understand today that I didn’t 30 years ago is that unless a conservation easement or deed restriction prohibits it, all wetlands can be filled. Sometimes mitigation is required in an effort to maintain “No Net Loss” of wetlands. However, recreating functional wetlands as part of rehabilitation projects doesn’t equate to protecting existing functional wetlands.
In May 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court issued the Sackett ruling (Sackett v. EPA), which removed a large portion of our Nation’s wetlands from the Corps’ jurisdiction, rendering them not “waters of the United States.” Wetlands with no continuous surface connections to bodies that are “waters of the United States” in their own right so that they are indistinguishable by the have In Similarly, laws Wetlands aquatic in-betweens more those surface duration normal of saturated of for supporting recharging opportunities, and The periodical trends and reports estimates States. most were the and “No enhancement management and management,
According to the Report’s preface to Members of Congress written by Deb Haaland, Secretary of the Department of the Interior, “Wetlands enhance water quality, control erosion, maintain stream flows, sequester carbon, and provide a home to about half of all threatened and endangered species.” However, “…we
Education through Art
Artist Boat’s Founder and Director Karla Klay’s Mission to Conserve and Educate
BY JESSICA SAFAVIMEHR
IT WAS AN OVERCAST DAY WHEN I MADE MY WAY WEST TO ARTIST BOAT’S HQ TO MEET WITH FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KARLA KLAY. The drive down Settegast Road is lush with wildlife and greenery, surrounded by wetlands. I stopped a few times to capture videos and photos, and to admire the land Klay has helped to preserve. You’ve probably seen Artist Boat’s contributions throughout the island without even knowing it; from the decorated trash barrels during Ocean Day to the tiled seats along the seawall, their impact can be felt all over the island.
According to their website, Artist Boat is a nonprofit organization that promotes awareness and preservation of coastal margins and the marine environment through science and art. Their mission is to connect people to Gulf Coast environments via educational and inspiring experiences, encouraging action to protect these habitats. Thus far, Artist Boat has helped protect over 1000 acres of wetlands in Galveston. Their goal in the next two years is to have protected over 3000 thousand acres of land; this July, they are set to close a deal on a purchase that will protect over 100 acres of land in Anchor Bay.
I had the pleasure of meeting with Karla Klay, Artist Boat’s Founder and Executive Director, to discuss the organization’s mission of integrating education, science, and art. Klay has been at the helm of integrating art and science for the past 20 years; Artist Boat celebrated its 20th birthday in August 2023. With degrees in Marine Biology and Fine Arts, Klay wanted to find a way to marry the two. Klay grew up in the Florida Keys with parents who helped pioneer the method of shipping live sharks to educational aquariums worldwide; her neighbors were the Dolphin Research Center. She grew up with the ocean and its surroundings as her playground and friends, and from a young age, she understood their importance. Klay’s experience with wildlife and her passion for preservation and education led to the creation of Artist Boat.
A continuing theme throughout our conversation was “education.” Klay stressed the importance of incorporating art and education into how we see the wildlife and wetlands surrounding us in Galveston. “ Education is so important; we can teach people how to see,” Klay emphasized. Artists Boat and Klay want to offer opportunities for the community to better understand our environment by experiencing it through an artistic lens. With kayaks on the water and summer programs for youth, Artist Boat is hard at work educating the community and enabling people to embrace their artistic side.
So, why is all of this conservation work essential? According to Klay, once the developers have their bulldozers and construction crew on site, the battle is over. We as a community must be PROACTIVE! By supporting organizations like Artist Boat and the Galveston Bay Foundation, we can help fund the purchase of these habitats to protect them. Here's the skinny: currently, developers can purchase the land and do what they want. Organizations like Artist Boat can come in and offer the developer another option. These organizations provide the developers with conservation through selling. As of this writing, the developers from whom Artist Boat has purchased have been willing to negotiate pricing and sell the land to help preserve the wildlife and their habitats. It is important to note that Artist Boat has to raise funds to the tune of well over $1 million most of the time, as donations must be matched when using federal or state grant dollars to purchase the land.
Map courtesy of Artist Boat
This means that we here in Galveston must come together as a community and help conserve what land is left undeveloped to help preserve this land for wildlife and future generations. You might not think that wetlands affect you directly, but they do. Klay broke down the five functions of wetlands: water filtration, nursery, flood protection, erosion control, and home to wildlife. The wetlands are essential to Galveston, particularly thanks to the flood protection they provide. They also act as a home to some of the most unique birds and other wildlife.
So, how can you help? Education. You can learn more about wildlife and the preserved land by participating in a paint-andpaddle class, where you can enjoy the scenery while expressing your creativity. You can join the Artist Boat crew at their next Ocean Day or other events around the island. You can send your kiddos to their summer camp, where they will learn about the wildlife while exploring the conserved land. Volunteering is also a great option. All of this is to say that we as a community can do our part by educating ourselves to understand our surroundings better. If you are inclined, you can also donate to the cause, which will help Karla and crew secure the next spot of land. Even $10 goes a long way if the entire community gets involved.
DONATE TO ARTIST BOAT HERE
Photos courtesy of Jessica Safavimehr
WATER FILTRATION
Nutrients from fertilizer application, manure, leaking septic tanks, and municipal sewage that are dissolved in the water are often absorbed by plant roots and microorganisms in the soil. Other pollutants stick to soil particles. In many cases, this filtration process removes much of the water’s nutrient and pollutant load by the time it leaves a wetland.
Nursery
Up to one-half of North American bird species nest or feed in wetlands.
Flood Protection
An acre of wetland can store 1–1.5 million gallons of floodwater. The Great Flood of 1993 in the upper Mississippi River Basin caused billions of dollars in property damage and resulted in 38 deaths. Historically, 20 million acres of wetlands in this area had been drained or filled. If the wetlands had been preserved rather than drained, much property damage and crop loss could have been avoided.
5 FUNCTIONS OF A WETLAND
Erosion Control
Wetlands function like natural tubs or sponges, storing water and slowly releasing it. This process slows the water’s momentum and erosive potential, reduces flood heights, and allows for ground water recharge, which contributes to base flow to surface water systems during dry periods.
Home for Wildlife
Wetlands are some of the most biologically productive natural ecosystems in the world, comparable to tropical rain forests and coral reefs in their productivity and the diversity of species they support. Abundant vegetation and shallow water provide diverse habitats for fish and wildlife.
Chapter Meeting
Second Thursday of Each Month at Beerfoot Brewery @ 6PM
Galveston’s Wetlands A Birding Paradise Amid Coastal Marshes
BY GREG WHITTAKER
WATER IS LIFE – IT’S A SIMPLE PREMISE THAT LINKS ALL THE STORIES IN THIS WETLANDS ISSUE. If you live here, you know it. If you are visiting, you also know it. It’s why you are here. It’s also why so many birds are here at all times of the year. Mixing freshwater from the Trinity River with the salty Gulf water across the Galveston Bay estuary complex drives a thriving, dynamic, and highly productive food web. Saltmarsh ecosystems serve as the nursery for all taxonomic levels, from invertebrates to mammals. Birds, including gulls, terns, cormorants, pelicans, herons, and egrets, use the marshes as a foraging area, taking advantage of all the tiny shrimp, crabs, and various fish species that live in this nursery habitat. Others, like ducks, rails, and some shorebirds, use the marsh as a nursery to raise their young. Raptors, flycatchers, swallows, sparrows, and blackbirds enjoy the rich insect diversity, grass seeds, and mammals the marsh supports.
If I were to recommend 2 or 3 locations where people might get a good appreciation for what our coastal saltmarshes offer for birders, I would likely steer folks towards Galveston Island State Park (bayside), East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, and maybe my personal favorite, a drive down 8-Mile Road and Sportsman’s Road. You can’t beat the experience of walking the Clapper Rail Trail through knee-high Saltmarsh Cordgrass, crossing the boardwalk over Butterowe Bayou, and standing beside our Lost Bird Project Eskimo Curlew. Eastern Willets whistle their discontent at encroachment into their territory. Galveston Island State Park showcases over 2,000 acres of native intertidal salt marsh, dune-swale, coastal prairie, and dune-beach habitat to more visitors than any other State Park in Texas. Get your annual park pass and use it as often as you like here in our Island gem.
feeding species that seem to aggregate here at the junction of land and water. The winter months seem to offer the best diversity, but some pelagic visitors during the summer months also surprise avian gawkers. Look overhead for the graceful Magnificent Frigatebirds soaring effortlessly above their marine highway. Drive east on Boddeker Road, and look at the birds using the shorelines around the main lagoon as you cross the small inlet bridge.
If I have an hour to spend in nature nourishment, I almost always drive 8-mile Road and Sportsman’s Road with windows open and binoculars in my lap. It’s just over 2 miles from the beach to the now fencedoff rocky point jutting into West Galveston Bay, and almost all of it is natural habitat. You can appreciate the geologic formations known as the dune and swale complex, which cross many small fingers of water extending east and west away from the road.
72 DIFFERENT SPECIES OF BIRDS
RECORDED
WITHIN 45 MINUTES HERE!
At the eastern edge of Sea Isle is the Houston Audubon Dos Vacas Muertes Sanctuary at the end of Seabird Drive. Only a couple of vehicles can park along the narrow road as you reach the sanctuary gate. This small oak motte is the primary attraction for migrating songbirds in the spring. Still, the surrounding habitat is coastal prairie fringed in intertidal salt marsh for year-round birding enjoyment. As you meander around the pond on boardwalks over the freshwater marsh areas, notice how the species composition for both plants and animals shifts to the salt pan and salt marsh you encounter emerging out the north side of the sanctuary. If you don’t want to brave the mosquitoes and marsh mud, you can access the western side of this habitat by driving north on San Jacinto Drive, then jog right or left on Concho Key to get a great view over the marsh complex.
Beach is bordered by natural marsh habitat on the east and west sides. On Bob Smith Drive, you can get views of an example of an eroded, subsiding marsh to the west and the protected Lorenz Family Beach Bird & Fish Estuary developed area. On the Beach along Jolly Roger
On the opposite side of Highway 87 is Houston Audubon’s Horseshoe Marsh Sanctuary. It is bordered by Highway 87, Loop 108, and 7th Street, encompassing over 650 acres of tidal lagoon, marsh, and coastal prairie ecosystem. A mowed path and boardwalk were added in the past few years, and this sanctuary is now accessible through a lot on the southeast side of Broadway/Loop 187 between 23rd and 24th streets. The boardwalk showcases a freshwater marsh habitat on the northeastern side and the adjacent brackish saltmarsh to the southwestern side.
The vast majority of our island’s 7 million annual visitors come to appreciate the sandy Gulf shores along the southern edge. Suppose you value peaceful serenity and a serious connection with nature. In that case, I will encourage you to visit the other shoreline along the bay and lose yourself in the sea of Spartina as the orange sun dips over the horizon.
WATCH THE BOLIVAR FLATS
BIRD CAM HERE WITH HOUSTON
AUDUBON
Photos courtesy of Unsplash
Exploring Galveston’s Hidden Gem: The East End Lagoon Nature Preserve
BY ELIZABETH SCHNEIDER, ENVIRONMENTAL COORDINATOR, GALVESTON PARK BOARD
WHEN PEOPLE THINK OF GALVESTON, THE BEACHFRONT IS USUALLY THE FIRST THING THAT COMES TO MIND.
While the sandy shores are a major draw, the island’s true allure lies in its diverse ecosystem. Our island wouldn’t be the same without the wetlands and bays that support and protect it. Among these, the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve stands out as a testament to nature’s resilience and beauty.
Heading east on Seawall Blvd, you’ll notice the urban landscape giving way to a serene lagoon surrounded by expansive wetlands. This area, now known as the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, stretches from Seawall Blvd to East Beach Park. This vast open space, comprising a lagoon, wetlands, and coastal prairie, forms a thriving ecosystem essential to Galveston’s environmental health.
Historically, this area was a trash dump. Its transformation into a flourishing nature preserve is a remarkable evolution. The lagoon began to form when the South Jetty was constructed in 1886, leading to sand accumulation that transformed sand flats into the current lagoon. Over the years, the East End Lagoon has served various purposes, from military forts to recreational beach clubs and bait shops.
The East End Lagoon Nature Preserve spans nearly 700 acres and features diverse habitats, including wetlands, coastal prairie, mangroves, a dune system, and a freshwater pond. This preserve is a sanctuary for the island’s wildlife, providing habitats and nurseries with abundant food sources. Native plants thrive here, their deep roots aiding in flood control and water filtration. One striking native plant is the Golden Rod, which blooms in vibrant yellow during late summer and early fall, attracting numerous pollinators.
Visitors to the East End Lagoon can enjoy a myriad of activities, such as kayaking, fishing, picnicking, birding, crabbing, and beachcombing. The preserve not only offers recreational opportunities but also serves as an educational platform. Local nonprofits enhance the visitor experience by providing educational programs and activities. For instance, the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council offers free birding walks along the lagoon’s half-mile trail loop. The Turtle Island Restoration Network conducts marine debris surveys, and SPLASh organizes beach cleanups to promote environmental stewardship. Additionally, Artist Boat has hosted kayaking tours, allowing people to explore the lagoon from the water. Not to mention, the nature trail within the park is ADA-accessible.
These activities foster a deep appreciation for the natural environment and encourage visitors to contribute positively to the island’s ecosystem. The East End Lagoon Nature Preserve is a prime example of how conservation and recreation can coexist, providing a haven for wildlife and a natural playground for humans. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the East End Lagoon invites you to explore, learn, and enjoy the unique beauty of Galveston’s hidden gem.
ExpEriEncE thE UltimatE SUmmEr EScapE at SchlittErbahn GalvESton
CALLING ALL GALVESTON LOCALS AND FAMILIES! As the sun heats up and the days grow longer, there’s no better place to beat the heat and create lasting memories than at Schlitterbahn Galveston.
SchlittErbahn iS thE official GalvEStonian SUmmEr riGht of paSSaGE!
Get in on the excitement with your 2024 Schlitterbahn Season Pass. Passholders can enjoy unlimited visits any day the park is open to the public, making it easier than ever to soak up the excitement and thrills. As a Season Passholder, you’re not just gaining access to the park – you’re unlocking a world of exclusive perks and benefits. Say goodbye to parking woes with free parking all season long, and feel free to pack your own cooler to keep your favorite snacks and drinks close at hand. Plus, take advantage of exclusive offers on cabana rentals and enjoy discounts on delicious food and must-have merchandise. localS know what’S Up.
Pop-in for a few hours of fun, leave half-way through the day and let the tourist keep the lines! Come back and do it all again tomorrow, and the next day… Your Season Pass is the key to convenience and casual summer cool downs. Whether you’re seeking adrenalinepumping rides, lazy river relaxation, or family-friendly fun, Schlitterbahn Galveston has something for everyone. So, gather your loved ones, grab your Season Passes, and embark on a summer adventure like no other!
Photos courtesy of Schlitterbahn Galveston
Coolture
AS SEEN AT VIRGINIA POINT!
Black Rail, which, as of 2020, is threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Virginia Point has a significant colony of this wetland-dependent bird, which occupies its high marshes.
PHOTO BY WOODY WOODROW
THROUGH SCIENCE AND OUTREACH THE GULF COAST CANINE PROJECT AIMS TO PRESERVE NATIVE CANINES, THEIR DISTINCT GENETICS, AND THE NATURAL AREAS THEY INHABIT ALONG THE GULF COAST.
Protecting Texas Coastal Wetlands is paramount for the survival of the endangered Galveston Texas Ghost Wolves. These wetlands provide crucial habitats, offering shelter, prey, and breeding grounds for these wild canines.
LEARN MORE
pulse
July - August 2024 Calendar of Events
July & August pulse
BINGO NIGHTS AT GALVESTON ISLAND BREWING
Mondays 5-7PM (recurring every Monday)
GIB | 8423 Stewart Rd.
Come enjoy classic fun with GIB BINGO. Prizes every round and fun for the whole family. The Shepherd Mix Food Truck will be on site Mondays 4-8PM, so come hungry!
GALVESTON BEACH BAND SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Tuesdays in July, 7:30-8:30PM (recurring every Monday)
Sealy Pavilion | 900 24th St
Big Band concerts designed to encourage audience participation of all ages with a variety of music. The band’s pieces are selected from movies and Broadway shows, patriotic songs and marches along with popular songs of today and days gone by. Free family fun!
SAVE THE LOCALS
Thursdays in July, 6-9PM (recurring every Monday)
Menard Park | 2222 28th St
Free music and family fun at the Menard Park Band Shelter. Original music from local and regional artists. Bring a chair, blanket and cooler.
STRAND SUMMER SERIES - MOVIE NIGHTS AT HENDLEY GREEN
Saturdays 6:30-9PM (once a month)
Hendley Green | 2028 Strand St
Movie nights start at dusk and are free to the public, with on-site beer and wine and select vendors. Bring your own chairs, blanket and cooler. Line up below.
Jun 15: The Green Book
Jul 13: Roman Holiday
Aug 10: Wonka
Sep 07: Barbie
PROFESSIONAL SANDCASTLE BUILDING LESSONS
Saturdays in July, 11AM-3PM East Beach | 1923 Boddeker Dr Visitors to East Beach can participate in “Sandcastle Days”. The events will take place at 11AM, 1PM, and 3PM Saturday July 6-20. Free family fun!
SUNSET & SOUNDS: SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AT HOTEL LUCINE
Saturdays in July & August, 6-9PM
Hotel Lucine | 1002 Seawall Blvd
Hotel Lucine is partnering with Flexdef & Austin Music Presents to bring you our Summer Concert Series: Sunsets & Sounds. This free event is open to hotel visitors. See the line up below!
Jul 06: Telula @telulaofficial
Jul 13: Lew Apollo @lew.apollo
Jul 20: Swimwear Department @swimweardepartment
Jul 27: Kam Franklin @bamitskam
Aug 03: Texas Gentleman @texasgentlemen
Aug 10: Restos @restosmusic
Aug 17: Alex Maas @alexmaas33
Aug 24: Nik Parr & The Selfless Lovers @nikparrmusic @theselflessloversmusic
Aug 31: Bright Light Social Hour @tblsh
STRAND
SUMMER SERIES - MUSIC NIGHTS AT SAENGERFEST PARK
Saturdays 6:30-9PM (once a month)
Saengerfest Park | 2302 Strand
Music nights performances are free to the public with on-site beer and wine, select vendors, and a reserved VIP area with reserved seating, complimentary drinks, meet and greets, and more. Line up below!
Jul 06: Two Tons of Steel
Aug 03: Dale Watson & His Lone Stars
Sep 14: Galvezton, India Tigers in Texas, and Kevin Anthony & G-Town
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Email Us. CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com
Adventure Awaits
Go outside and jump into nature! Explore all of Galveston Island's wonders at Galveston Island State Park. It's a great place to enjoy the beach, the gulf, and the bay. Here you can kayak trails, fish, bike and so much more! Right in your own backyard.
ENTRANCE FEES
Adult: $5 Daily Child 12 Years and Under: Free GALVESTON ISLAND STATE PARK 14901 FM 3005 Galveston, TX 77554
tpwd.texas.gov/stateparks/galveston-island
Photo courtesy of Artist Boat
people of GALVESTON
ELIZABETH SCHNEIDER
ENVIRONMENTAL COORDINATOR, GALVESTON PARKS BOARD
The wetlands offer many things in terms of protection, recreation, and habitat. This is a big nursery for many flora and fauna here on the island. The number one thing I think of when I think of wetlands is resiliency. And that is also what I think of when I think of our Galveston community and our history here on the island. You’ll see many people out here fishing, kayaking, and just looking at the wildlife out here, too. So they offer many things, and we are always excited to share this special part of our island with our visitors here in Galveston.
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT COASTAL WETLANDS AND THE IMPACT THEY HAVE ON OUR ISLAND?
BY DAVE WARNER
We’re losing our wetlands at an alarming rate, and we’re losing them because of sea level rise and subsidence, as well as because of the effects of climate change. I do know that our coastal wetlands are important habitats for our birds, plants, and fish. Communities rely on them for subsistence fishing, and they’re also an important place where people go for recreation. Our birdwatching community will often use our wetlands areas as great places for birding as well. So they provide a lot of different services for us.
ANTOINETTE QUIGG
REGENTS PROFESSOR, MARINE BIOLOGY, TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY AT GALVESTON
BO STEBER
CHARTER BOAT CAPTAIN
As far as coastal wetlands go, the main thing they provide to us here in Galveston is the harbor of animals. I’m a big duck hunter, ducks play a huge part in the ecosystem, they take the food from the wetlands. Also, the fish, it harbors a lot of fish, you got crustaceans, you got little sting rays, you got small redfish, small trout, all these kinds of baby fish, and this is where they grow up, and then they grow big, and they move out into the ocean and therefore providing a sustainable resource.
SASHA FRANCIS
GULF RESTORATION EDUCATION AND OUTREACH MANAGER
Texas has lost over 50 % of its wetlands since we, European settlement, came to this area. They’re one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world.
We’re losing them faster than forests even. They’re super important to our habitat here in our coastal ecosystem because not only do they help us regulate flooding in the area, but they also help us clean our waterways and provide crucial habitat for wildlife and the foundation of a lot of the things we like to eat like shrimp, crabs, fish. We can prevent further loss of our wetlands by reducing how much development happens, especially in the Houston-Galveston area; many building spaces are already developed but not occupied. We can utilize that space instead of building brand-new things. That’s a way we can reduce the destruction of our wetlands because development is probably the number one thing that threatens our wetlands.
Everything from migratory birds to local birds we have here, pollinators, species in the Bay and Gulf Mexico ecosystem, and wetlands are crucial to those animals. Just like the pollinator plants that grow here that are native to Texas, wetlands are super important for all of the animals that either live here or travel through this area.
EMILY EVANS
FOUNDING DIRECTOR, CUSTOM COASTAL OUTREACH
Coastal wetlands don’t just have an impact here in Galveston. Coastal wetlands impact our entire country. And coastal wetlands are very unique from inland wetlands. We wouldn’t have this thriving shrimp and fish industry if we didn’t have our coastal wetlands. Without our wetlands, this island would be underwater much more than it is now. Our wetlands are probably the number one most important part of Galveston Island. Last year in 2023, the Army Corps of Engineers, which was in charge of regulating our wetlands and whether you can and cannot build on them, their jurisdictional determination, basically their reach, was cut by the Supreme Court. You can look up the case, but it lost; it left our wetlands without protection from the Army Corps of Engineers.
Without that protection, unknowing buyers can come in and build on land either by the bay or by the beach that locals know fills with water. That’s what a wetland does. We must increase the protection of our local wetlands and the entire Gulf Coast wetlands. Galveston is a great place to come and fish. Our fish wouldn’t have a nursery ground to grow in without our wetlands. Wetlands also bring along a lot of birds to our great migratory path.
KARLA KLAY | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ARTIST BOAT
Well, I know a lot about coastal wetlands. By coastal wetlands, we likely mean wetlands that occur in estuaries like Galveston Bay. So, we primarily have marshes made of spartina alterniflora, which we call a brackish marsh, and then we have freshwater wetlands inside Galveston Island. Wetlands’ benefits are tremendous; 90% of all fish, shrimp, and crabs that humans love to eat begin in a wetland. Wetlands filter all the runoff water from the land; the wetlands filter it before it goes into the bay. So we have a clean bay because the wetlands are filtering water. They also have huge root systems with a lot of dead material. So those root systems hold the land together; they prevent erosion, and then it’s a treasury of carbon. Wetlands hold six times more carbon per square inch than terrestrial forests. And then last but not least, because we love to talk about floods and hurricanes, they store a lot of water during flooding events and let them out slowly. So, destroying any type of wetland on planet Earth is a bad decision.
