Conservation Mindsets and Actions Make a Difference

Writing about volunteers has been an annual endeavor for me since I began writing articles for Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine fourteen plus years ago. It’s an annual reminder that volunteers hold a special place in the conservation of our coastal resources. As a lifelong resident of the Texas gulf coast and a volunteer and employee of Coastal Conservation Association Texas (CCA Texas) for the past 34 years, I have always been struck by the incredible beauty and diversity of the natural resources that surround us. From the sandy beaches and waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the sprawling wetlands and marshes of the inland bays that are home to an array of wildlife and habitat. The Texas gulf coast is truly a special place.

However, as with any natural ecosystem, the Texas coast is constantly facing challenges and threats that can put its beauty and biodiversity at risk. From the impacts of pollution and development to the effects of general recreational use and commercial fishing, the health of the Gulf Coast is something that requires our ongoing attention and care.

CCA Texas remains one organization that is doing important work to preserve and protect the Texas gulf coast. Founded in 1977, CCA is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to conserving the natural resources of the Gulf coast, with a particular focus on sound, science-based fisheries management and coastal habitat. CCA Texas is set apart from other organizations by a strong volunteer driven committee system that works with staff to help ensure healthy coastal resources for future generations.

Through a variety of programs and initiatives, CCA works to protect and enhance the coastal and marine environments of the Texas coast. This includes efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices, restore damaged habitats, and advocate for policies and regulations that support the conservation of marine resources.

One way that you can get involved and help support the work of CCA, or any similar organization, is by volunteering your time and resources. Whether you have a few hours to spare each week, or you're looking for a more long-term commitment, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference.

CCA Texas currently has 60 local chapters across the state. These chapters are the local connection and grassroots energy of the organization. Each chapter hosts an annual fundraising and membership banquet. The funds raised and membership generated at these events are vital in CCA Texas’s advocacy and habitat restoration and creation efforts. Local chapters are an excellent opportunity to volunteer your time and energy to make a difference in the conservation of Texas’s coastal resources.

Other volunteer opportunities you might consider are joining one of the local beach cleanups, bay cleanups, abandoned crab trap cleanups or habitat restoration projects that CCA Texas and other organizations support and execute. One example of a volunteer driven event is the bay debris cleanup hosted by the Aransas Bay Chapter in October of 2023. Although the turnout was light for the event, three boats of volunteers were able to fill a large roll-off dumpster over half full. Imagine if there would have been ten boats. These programs give volunteers the opportunity to get hands-on experience conserving and protecting the Texas coast, while also learning about the importance of these ecosystems and the challenges they face.

Be sure to mark your calendar for two major upcoming events. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) 22^nd Annual Abandoned Crab Trap Removal will take place February 16, 2024 through February 25, 2024, with the major volunteer effort slated to take place on February, 17, 2024. Also of great significance, Friends of Padre will host the 29^th Annual Billy Sandifer Big Shell Beach Cleanup on February 24, 2024. CCA Texas is proud to continue its support of both events. Events where volunteers are making a difference and forging a legacy for the future.

Another way to volunteer is to get involved in CCA Texas’s conservation efforts. This might include things like participating in research and monitoring projects, advocating for policies and regulations that support the conservation of marine resources through public comment when afforded the opportunity, or helping to educate the public about the importance of conserving the Texas coast by sharing the efforts of CCA Texas and being the example for conservation through your personal actions. TPWD publishes listings of pending regulatory proposals and encourages public comment through in-person attendance at meetings and/or online submissions. Take the time and register your email for notifications and become part of the process.

Volunteering with CCA isn't just about hard work and getting your hands dirty. It can also be a great opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people. And, by working alongside others who are also passionate about conserving Texas coastal resources, you can make new connections and friendships that will last a lifetime. One of the biggest satisfactions of being involved with CCA Texas for me personally is the long list of friendships and opportunities to work with dedicated conservationists from across the state, and I think I can speak the same for all the Assistant Directors at CCA Texas that work with local volunteers. CCA Texas volunteers are second to none and you are the energy of the organization.

So, if you're looking for a way to make a difference in your community and give back to Texas’s coastal resources, consider volunteering with CCA Texas. You'll be making a positive impact on Texas’s coastal resources and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you're doing your part to protect this special place for future generations.