Coastal habitats along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) in Texas are facing serious threats from erosion, sea level rise, and habitat loss. Over time, shoreline erosion, changes in water flow, and reduced natural sediment movement — largely due to navigation activity in the GIWW — have caused salt marshes to degrade or disappear entirely. These wetlands are critical for wildlife, water quality, and storm protection, yet many are now converting into open water or shifting from brackish to more saline conditions.
This Continuing Authorities Program (AP) Section 204 project focuses on the beneficial use of dredged material (BUDM) — repurposing sediment from routine maintenance dredging of the GIWW — to restore vital wetland habitats.
The Recommended Plan will use dredged sediment to restore and enhance saline marsh habitats within the Goose Island State Park. These restored wetlands will help strengthen the region’s resilience to sea level rise and support native fish and wildlife.
Project highlights:
Habitat Restoration:
- 32.8 acres of low-elevation saline marsh
- 6.2 acres of high-elevation saline marsh
Long-Term Benefits:
- Restores and creates essential wildlife habitat
- Improves water quality
- Increases natural storm surge protection
- Keeps sediment in the coastal system to reduce erosion
Latest update (09/010/2025): USACE is currently developing Plans & Specs.