The Texas Sea Grant staff came together for a retreat in February in Palacios, Texas to discuss program updates, plan for an upcoming required federal Site Review over the program and strategize about focus area outreach and extension. The staff also took time to welcome some new faces to the team. This includes Mallory Shetley, Administrative Coordinator; Sara Stewart, Coastal & Marine Extension Agent for Cameron County; Christine Hale, Associate Director, Extension; and Megan Towery, Communications Director.
While in Palacios, the team toured the Palacios Marine Agriculture Research Oyster Hatchery and DJ’s Oyster farm of the Oyster Bros family business. As part of his work, Texas Sea Grant’s Aquaculture Program Manager, Mario Marquez, supports the Palacios hatchery and oyster farm. This farm is at the forefront of a new wave in aquaculture, helping to establish a sustainable and profitable oyster farming sector in the state. By focusing on sustainable farming practices, DJ’s Oyster Farm is not only contributing to local seafood production but also enhancing the overall health of Texas’ coastal ecosystems. As the industry grows, Marquez and the farm are helping to shape the future of the Texas seafood market, providing a model for other farms and creating new economic opportunities in coastal communities.
During the tours, the team viewed the equipment and processes used to take oysters from larvae to market. Touring the oyster farm was highly beneficial for the Texas Sea Grant team, offering a hands-on learning experience that connected research and outreach with real-world practices. It fostered collaboration and team building, allowing team members from different disciplines to share insights in an immersive setting. The tour also provided a deeper understanding of the challenges and needs of the oyster farming industry, inspiring new ideas for future programs and show resilience in relationships with local stakeholders.
Texas Sea Grant’s extension agents play a vital role in bridging the gap between scientific research and the community. They work directly with coastal stakeholders—such as fishermen, farmers, businesses, and local governments—by providing education, technical assistance, and resources. Their goal is to promote sustainable practices and enhance the health of coastal ecosystems. Extension agents offer guidance on a wide range of topics, including aquaculture, marine resource management, coastal resilience, and water quality. They also help implement research findings, deliver workshops, and support local industries to ensure that practices are both environmentally responsible and economically viable. By connecting communities with research and fostering collaboration, Texas Sea Grant’s extension agents contribute to the long-term sustainability of Texas’ coastal and marine resources.
For more information about the programs that Texas Sea Grant supports or to learn about upcoming events we host or participate in, visit our website or explore our social media pages.