Year-End Review: A Sustainable Future for Texas Coastal Resources

In 2025, CCA Texas made significant strides in coastal conservation to ensure the health and sustainability of our coastal resources, with much attention focused on our vital oyster fishery. This year was marked by strategic initiatives, legislative victories, and substantial financial commitments that collectively promise a healthier future for the state’s coastal ecosystems, benefiting recreational anglers, the environment, and local communities.

Oyster Conservation and the Certificate of Location Program

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission implemented pivotal amendments to the Statewide Oyster Fishery Proclamation that enhanced the Certificate of Location (CoL) program. This program leases areas in Texas coastal waters for private and restoration purposes, aiming to replenish oyster stocks and improve bay health. Originally limited to commercial oyster interests in Galveston Bay with 2,318 acres under lease, the program now allows non-profits and NGOs to lease up to 100 acres per restoration site. These locations will be closed to commercial oyster harvest, fostering sustainable practices in most bay systems.

These CoLs serve dual purposes: facilitating oyster restoration and granting exclusive commercial harvesting rights to commercial CoL holders, thereby reducing pressure on public reefs. This strategic approach is bolstered by a robust oyster license buyback program, effectively balancing ecological restoration with economic interests, reducing dependency on public reefs, and setting a new standard in oyster management.

Million-Dollar Investments Spur Conservation Initiatives

CCA Texas played a major role in the historic oyster license buyback campaign, contributing $1 million and helping reduce oyster boat licenses by 20 percent. This effort supports the long-term viability of the oyster fishery while safeguarding public reefs crucial for marine life and habitat stability.

Furthering its commitment—and detailed in Director of Habitat John Blaha’s article in this same issue of CURRENTS—CCA Texas approved nearly $7 million for diverse conservation initiatives, including habitat restoration and educational outreach programs. In addition to the license buyback efforts, key projects include Baffin Bay research and serpulid reef restoration, oyster reef restoration, tarpon and sportfish tagging research, coastal fisheries and game warden summer internships, conservation education, and additional efforts supporting coastal fishery resources.

Legislative Wins for Coastal Stewardship and Mariculture

The 89th Texas Legislature concluded with significant progress in coastal conservation and oyster mariculture. Notable legislation included House Bill 609 and Senate Bill 1215, which simplified operations for oyster farmers and preserved wild oyster stocks, respectively. These bills represent a balanced move toward efficient yet ecologically sensitive practices, underscoring Texas’s commitment to environmental stewardship and local economic development.

Additionally, Senate Bill 1930 directed fishing stamp revenues toward specific conservation projects, securing financial resources for habitat restoration and shoreline access—both essential for maintaining Texas’s rich biodiversity.

Addressing Desalination Concerns

CCA Texas remains vigilant regarding desalination impacts. As demand for freshwater increases, ensuring practices that protect coastal ecosystems is a critical component of all desalination discussions. CCA Texas opposes releasing desalination discharge into bay systems and recommends deep-well injection or offshore discharge when necessary. This stance reflects a commitment to safeguarding fish habitats while accommodating water needs.

Collaborative Efforts for Future Resilience

2025 was a pivotal year for Texas coastal conservation, characterized by strategic legislative actions, targeted financial investments, and an overarching commitment to sustainable practices. The combined efforts of CCA Texas, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas legislative offices, and conservation partners underscore a shared vision for the long-term health of Texas’s coast. Looking ahead, sustained cooperation among these stakeholders will remain critical. There is a collective focus on continued funding for oyster reef restoration under the CoL program, as well as additional oyster license buyback opportunities.

Thank you to all CCA Texas members for their dedication and commitment to conservation. Wishing you all a prosperous 2026!