Matagorda County Coastal & Marine Resources- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

Week 2 oyster garden shows signs of possible spatrecruitment! 🙌 And a friendly little pin fish was hanging out in one of the bags! Follow along to watch this restoration process unfold!

The Science Rocks crew explored the fascinating world of Texas mangrove trees and discovered why these unique coastal plants are so important to our environment!

Students learned how mangroves help protect shorelines from erosion, provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife, and improve water quality along the Texas coast!

To bring the lesson to life, each student created their very own mangrove tree to take home! This fun hands-on activity helped students better understand the unique root systems and adaptations that allow mangroves to thrive in coastal environments. 🌊🍃🌎

Thank you, Palacios Chamber of Commerce,for allowing me to speak today! I enjoyed the lunch! And am excited to have gained more oyster gardeners! 🦪🦪🙌

The FIRST ever Youth Mid-Coast Texas Master Naturalist Program—SEED (Students Engaged in Ecosystem Discovery)—celebrated its inaugural graduation today, marking an exciting milestone for both the students and our coastal community.

This pioneering program, developed in partnership with the Texas Master Naturalist Program, was designed to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards through hands-on learning, exploration, and meaningful engagement with our local ecosystems. Throughout the program, students immersed themselves in coastal habitats, learning about conservation, wildlife, water resources, and the critical role they play in protecting these natural assets.

Today’s celebration recognized not only the students’ dedication and curiosity, but also their growth as young leaders committed to making a difference. From field investigations to community-based projects, these students have laid a strong foundation for lifelong stewardship.

SEED represents more than just a program—it’s an investment in the future of our coast. Watching these students graduate is a powerful reminder that when we provide opportunities for youth to connect with nature, we cultivate informed, passionate advocates who will carry this work forward for years to come.

Happy ! Let's celebrate our amazing amphibian friends who play a crucial role in our ecosystems. Did you know Texas is home to a wide range of amphibians (71 types!), including the iconic Texas Blind Salamander? Let's protect these incredible creatures and their habitats!

What is your favorite amphibian? Comment and let us know!

Check out what our friends over at Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) are doing to celebrate all week: https://parcplace.org/education/amphibianweek2026

Kemp’s Ridley found nesting on Sargent Beach! It’s that time… be on the look out! And be sure to report any sightings! 👍