CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Oyster mariculture is the newest fishing industry to be a part of the Texas Coastal region.
District 32 Representative Todd Hunter is leading a virtual symposium Wednesday afternoon focused on the industry.
It was approved by legislators last year and it finally launched this month.
Texas is actually the final state of the Gulf of Mexico to legalize the off-bottom oyster mariculture.
Proponents say the new industry will create more jobs in our region and increase demand for local seafood and tourism.
The online symposium will run from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. and will highlight the benefits of the oyster mariculture to the local community and state.
Other topics of discussion include how it will be launched and its impact on the ecosystem.
To watch the symposium, go to https://tamucc.webex.com/webappng/sites/tamucc/meeting/download/8915773b58fd480b887bdee893fab4a4?siteurl=tamucc&MTID=m5834d86f2693cc7a92f2db66b44c1582
The Texas Parks and Wildlife is facilitating the industry and the application process.
There are two ways to apply. Go online at https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/commercial/com_cf/com_index.phtml or email questions to oyster.mariculture@tpwd.texas.gov.
TWPD also recommends anyone interested in applying to contact a local Coastal Fisheries staff to review a proposed site.
They can help you use the Coastal Fisheries Division's Spatial Planning Tool and help you determine if the "proposed site" conflicts with sensitive habitat or other permitted activities in the area.
Staff cannot recommend or choose a site for the applicant.
The following are listed as persons with the local Coastal Fisheries Division.
Corpus Christi Bay – Brian Bartram, 361-729-2328, x248
Upper Laguna Madre – Faye Grubbs, 361-825-3281
Lower Laguna Madre – Andres Garcia, 956-350-4490, x222
