To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas, and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
The Coastal Fisheries Division manages the marine fishery resources of Texas’ four million acres of saltwater, including the bays, estuaries and nine nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico. Coastal Fisheries management strategies are directed toward optimizing the long-term utilization and sustaining fisheries populations at levels that are necessary to ensure replenishable stocks of commercially and recreationally important species. The Division also focuses on habitat conservation and restoration, and leads the agency research, management and inter-agency coordination on all water-related issues, including assuring adequate in-stream flows for Texas’ rivers and sufficient freshwater inflows for bays and estuaries. These priority goals and strategies will assure our marine waters’ health and productivity, as well as protect fish, wildlife and plant resources from degradation or depletion.
The Coastal Fisheries staff works closely with other department divisions, as well as other state, federal and international fishery management agencies to provide optimum opportunities from and conservation for the rich biological diversity inherent in Texas’ marine waters.
The Texas Shrimp Association is charged with promoting and supporting all aspects of the Texas shrimp industry.
The Texas Gulf Coast provides a wealth of natural resources that drive the Texas economy, provide food and fuel for a rapidly growing human population, and sustain and nourish life. The quality and abundance of these natural resources is pivotal to sustained growth in Texas. Balancing the economic, environmental and cultural benefits these natural resources offer is Texas’ grand challenge. The Texas Sea Grant College Program’s research and engagement programs respond to this challenge: by capturing the academic potential of our universities; linking universities to the needs of Texans; building knowledge; creating innovative tools and services with a public purpose; translating research results to the public; developing the Texas workforce; sustaining industries; and solving real-world problems to improve human welfare and the health of our natural resources.
With a reputation for great times and premium American seafood, the legacy of the country’s great seafood belongs to the Gulf Coast. Comprised of five states, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, the Gulf Coast region has been providing fishermen, grocers, chefs, foodies and many others with not only great food and memorable times, but also an economic engine that powers the entire region. High in demand, the Gulf Coast produces 70 percent of the nation’s oysters and 69 percent of domestic shrimp; as well, it is a leading producer of domestic hard and soft-shell blue crabs. As pioneers in many commercial fishing practices, the Gulf Coast's seafood taste profile is superior because of the nutrient-rich environment found in its waters.
The Gulf Coast Seafood Coalition (Coalition) was formed by the Gulf & South Atlantic Fisheries Foundation, Inc. as a result of a grant from the States Marine Fisheries Commission (NOAA Award #NA10NMF4770481). Representing all components of the seafood distribution chain, including commercial fishermen, processors, wholesalers, associations, sea grant, tourism boards, restaurants, retailers, chefs and charter boat sectors, the Coalition has been established to coordinate all efforts and provide a cohesive vision and overarching strategy to showcase Gulf Coast seafood. Strategies will focus on expanding global market share for wild seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. For current updates, please visit www.eatgulfseafood.com
Coalition member states: Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas
The Gulf & South Atlantic Fisheries Foundation, incorporated in 1976, is a private, regional nonprofit research and development organization that represents the commercial fishing industry from Texas to Virginia
To improve the economic well-being and quality of life for all U.S. stakeholders in the fisheries of the Gulf and South Atlantic through utilizing the fundamental principles of sustainability, conservation and transparency.
The Gulf & South Atlantic Fisheries Foundation (Foundation) coordinates and administers high-quality research, marketing and outreach projects that enhance the long-term viability and productivity of the southeastern U.S. commercial fisheries. Through these projects, the Foundation is able to improve the economic well-being and quality of life of all stakeholders in the fisheries of the Gulf and South Atlantic, ensure the sustainability of the Gulf and South Atlantic Ocean’s ecosystems and collaborate with industry partners in ensuring high-quality, delicious seafood is delivered to America’s families. The Foundation represents nine states: Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.