Moody Gardens, best known for its iconic pyramids and tourist attractions, is emerging as a major conservation force on the Gulf Coast through oyster reef construction, recycling programs, and partnerships with researchers and environmental groups.
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Moody Gardens, well-known for its iconic pyramid attractions and family-friendly activities, is stepping up its conservation efforts on the Gulf Coast. The dedicated staff and volunteers are actively enhancing oyster reef restoration and recycling initiatives throughout Galveston Bay.
Located just a brief stroll from the iconic pyramids of Moody Gardens, a collection of oyster shells and leftover landscaping materials awaits repurposing. The shells play a crucial role in an expanding initiative to build reefs, which has become a key focus of the resort's commitment to environmental sustainability. Moody Gardens has successfully gathered 100 tons of oyster shells since becoming part of the Galveston Bay Foundation’s recycling initiative in 2020, as stated by Conservation and Sustainability Manager Jennifer Lamm.
“I believe when people see the pyramids, they perceive it merely as a tourist spot,” Lamm stated. “They are unaware of all the activities happening behind the curtain.”
Last month, the resort intensified its conservation efforts as staff collaborated with the Galveston Bay Foundation to construct a 157-foot oyster reef off the eighth hole of the Moody Gardens Golf Course, addressing erosion issues in Sydnor Bayou that were impacting the landscape. Dedicated volunteers invested approximately a week in packing 1,200 thirty-pound bags of recycled shells, which were then lowered into the bayou to establish a stable habitat. According to project manager Sally Clark, the foundation gathers over 200 tons of shells annually from local restaurants.
“They truly prioritize conservation efforts,” Clark stated. “It was simply a natural collaboration.”
A new reef is set to be established this spring close to the 11th hole of the course, with a diverse group of volunteers, including medical office staff and local students, already engaged in the preparation of bagged shells.
The restoration arrives at a time when natural reefs in Galveston Bay are facing ongoing challenges. Lamm noted that hurricanes Ike and Harvey, along with a series of storms, have led to a 60 percent decrease in the bay's oyster population over the last 20 years. Initial indications of life emerged swiftly at the newly established reef. Lamm remembered seeing “two little blue crabs battling for a fish” during a recent low tide.
Moody Gardens is actively involved in various initiatives, including a coastal plant farm in collaboration with Stephen F. Austin State University, public forums addressing the island’s “ghost wolf” population, and research support at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary and the Pacaure preserve in Costa Rica.
The resort has recently unveiled a video podcast titled “Behind the Pyramids” to showcase its commitment to environmental sustainability. Lamm stated that tourism plays a crucial role in driving these initiatives by backing educational programs and the Moody Gardens Conservation Fund.
“Everyone who walks through the door contributes to our ongoing mission,” she stated.
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