88R31902 TBO-D
By: Middleton S.R. No. 668
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The completion of Rett Reef off the coast of
San Leon in Galveston Bay will mark the first oyster restoration
reef in Texas established by a private oyster industry member; and
WHEREAS, Lisa Halili, the founder of the San Leon Oyster Fest
(SLOF), first conceived of the idea for Rett Reef to raise awareness
of Rett syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily
impacts girls and women and is characterized by slowing
development, loss of mobility, and other life-changing symptoms;
the Rett Reef project is being made possible through a partnership
involving SLOF, Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, Prestige Oysters,
The Nature Conservancy, and Texas Sea Grant at Texas A&M
University; and
WHEREAS, For the creation of Rett Reef, Pier 6 is donating all
the shells necessary to help restore a historical sport fishing
reef that was destroyed by Hurricane Ike; upon its completion, the
nonharvestable oyster reef will span 10 acres, and it will play an
instrumental role in improving water quality, attracting fauna,
protecting the area from storm surges, and educating the public
about the many benefits provided by oyster reefs; in addition, the
reef will serve as a habitat for fish and invertebrate species, and
anglers will be able to use the reef as a recreational fishing
location; and
WHEREAS, With its natural beauty and abundant wildlife, the
Galveston Bay area is one of the treasures of the Lone Star State,
and Rett Reef is sure to be a valuable addition to this vibrant and
unique ecosystem; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature
hereby recognize Rett Reef in Galveston Bay and extend to all those
associated with the reef sincere appreciation for their efforts to
bring the project to fruition.