J.D. Murphree WMA Shoreline Protection (Salt Bayou Unit)

Project Description

The GLO is partnered with Ducks Unlimited (DU) for the J.D. Murphree Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Shoreline Protection Project to construct approximately 0.5 miles of rock breakwaters along the northern boundary of Salt Bayou Unit in the J.D. Murphree WMA. Erosion is occurring along the north boundary of the Salt Bayou Unit due to waves from the GIWW generated by recreational boats, commercial barges and wind. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologists have documented dramatic shoreline loss within this area of J.D. Murphree WMA. The shoreline in this area has retreated an average of 101 feet since the 1930s and erosion is threatening to breach the spoil bank that prevents higher salinity water from encroaching into intermediate and brackish marsh habitat on the Salt Bayou Unit. This project represents phase 2 construction of shoreline protection for the Salt Bayou Unit. Initial construction of rock breakwater started in 2014 with completion of 1.4 miles of shoreline.