Did you know nearly half of the Earth's oxygen is produced by the ocean? As we celebrate #WorldOceanWeek, we want to highlight the importance of the ocean on marine and human life, and how we must work together to conserve the Gulf.

Our work to ensure there's a vibrant Texas Coast and Gulf for future generations matter more than ever.

This week we celebrate #WorldOceanWeek! At the Gulf Trust, we know the significant impact the ocean has on a variety of factors including: climate regulation, transportation, recreation, economic benefits, food and even medicine!

Summer time in Texas means people flock to the Texas Coast to enjoy the sunshine on a Texas beach! Did you know that the Texas Coast brings in ~$19.97 billion in tourism revenue? Protecting the Texas Coast and Gulf is essential to ensure it is available for future generations.

ICYMI: Gulf Trust Executive Director Jay Kleberg joined @fox7austin to talk about the ongoing Trash Free Gulf campaign and how taking time to clean up your local waters can create a lasting impact downstream. Watch the interview here:

. efforts where gaps exist. By bridging the gap between organizations and information, we provide the opportunity to produce the best outcomes for all. (2 of 2)

Gulf Trust strategically disseminates relevant research for decision makers and policymakers to inform and further policies that promote a sustainable balance between economic and environmental health and spur and help facilitate needed planning and data sharing (1 of 2). .

A huge thank you to our sponsors who have helped make this campaign possible, @HEB #OurTexasOurFuture, @YETICoolers, @TPWFoundation, @KeepTxBeautiful , and @withmender. (2 of 2).

Plastic never goes away, it just breaks into smaller pieces. It's harmful to humans and wildlife, but you can help by joining our cleanup! Volunteer today for an upcoming cleanup at #TrashFreeGulf #TurnTheTideTogether.(1 of 2)

Gulf Trust partners with organizations like @HarteResearch, @DucksUnlimited, @CCANational, oyster farmers and others across the state to pursue funding and provide research and support for initiatives that directly impact the waters and wildlife of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Join Trash Free Gulf tomorrow, Saturday May 17 at a variety of locations across the state! We have clean ups happening in Austin, San Antonio, DFW, Laredo and along the Texas Coast! Help turn the tide and keep our local waters clean! Learn more:

. we enable them to thrive and provide habitat for a wide range of marine species, contributing to greater biodiversity in coastal ecosystems. Texas Oyster Mariculture Association Oyster Resource and Recovery Center, HRI (4/4)

. significantly improving water quality in bays and estuaries. Additionally, farming oysters reduces pressure on wild oyster populations by offering a sustainable alternative for harvest. When we reduce pressure on wild reefs. (3/4).

. strengthens coastal economies. Oyster farming is widely recognized for its environmental benefits, as farmed oysters provide many of the same ecosystem services as their wild counterparts. A single 3-inch oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day. (2/4).

Gulf Trust is working with agency representatives and partners across the state to address critical challenges, like permitting and financing, that impede new and existing oyster farms on the Texas Gulf Coast. Texas’ growing oyster mariculture industry creates jobs and. (1/4).

. public health, & long-term economic development. SRF programs in Texas are oversubscribed, with many communities lacking the tax base to fund necessary improvements on their own. Healthy fisheries. Clean water. Strong coastal economies. Let’s protect the Gulf-together. (2/2)

Gulf Trust Exec Director Jay Kleberg also highlighted the urgent need for continued federal support of State Revolving Loan Funds (SRFs). These critical programs help coastal communities upgrade failing wastewater infrastructure-essential for protecting water quality. (1/2).

Last week, Gulf Trust Executive Director Jay Kleberg traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for stronger federal action on two critical issues impacting the Gulf and coastal Texas communities: IUU Fishing & State Revolving Loan Funds (SRFs). #GulfTrust #IUUfishing

We offer on-the-ground projects, outreach, and education to relevant stakeholder groups and local leaders to ensure that vital coastal habitats remain intact and healthy for generations to come.