Habitat Conservation and Restoration

Priorities for Sustainable Natural Communities

Sand used in beach restoration. Photo credit: Gulf of Mexico Alliance Governors' Action Plan

Over time, the Gulf of Mexico coastal zone has suffered significant degradation of natural habitats, as well as the associated loss of ecological services attendant to those changes. Population growth, changes in land use, and other human impacts in the coastal zones have exacerbated these trends. To remain healthy and sustainable, the communities of the Gulf region must ensure that economic development is consistent with environmental sustainability. The mission of the Alliance is to provide leadership to advance conservation and restoration of coastal habitats and ecosystems throughout the Gulf and associated watersheds and ultimately reverse the downward trend in habitat quality, quantity, and ecosystem services.

Long-term Goals

Engage a diverse group of stakeholders from state, federal, and international agencies, business and industry, and non-profit organizations to restore and conserve critical habitat
Improve policies that promote conservation and restoration efforts in both the public and private arena
Provide improved conservation and restoration management tools through the application of science and technology
Develop and implement an accurate tracking system to document gains and losses of Gulf habitats and ecosystem services

HCR-1: Expanded Partnerships

Action: Identify and engage non-participating relevant United States stakeholders with interests in the health and sustainability of the Gulf, and coordinate specific issues with representatives from the Gulf Mexican States.

Expected Results:

Alliance stakeholders in the United States and Mexico are active in pursuing Gulf habitat conservation and restoration through private and public partnerships.

HCR-2: Policy Changes

Action: Address specific public policy issues impeding habitat conservation and restoration.

Expected Results:

Funding and permitting processes, policies, and regulations regarding habitat conservation and restoration are improved.

HCR-3: Technology Development

Action: Identify and resolve specific scientific and technical issues so that conservation and restoration of Gulf habitats are more successful.

Expected Results:

Improved science-based management tools are available and routinely used for on-the-ground projects.

HCR-4: Gulf Regional Sediment Management Master Plan

Action: Develop and implement the Gulf Regional Sediment Management Master Plan (GRSMMP) to more effectively use dredged material and other sediment resources for restoration projects.

Expected Results:

Regional sediment management is implemented in all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers districts in collaboration with stakeholders across the Gulf.
Restoration project costs are significantly reduced by increasing re-use of dredged materials.