South Padre Island Conservation

Our home and our mission. Protecting the unique marine ecosystems of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Protecting Our Local Treasures

South Padre Island is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the Gulf of Mexico. From the critically endangered Kemp's Ridley sea turtles to the migratory birds that depend on our dunes, our ecosystem is as beautiful as it is fragile.

ShennaStudio was founded on these shores, and we believe it's our responsibility to ensure they remain vibrant for generations to come. Through your support, we fund local initiatives that make a direct difference on our beaches and in our waters.

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Sea Turtles
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Dolphins
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Whales
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Shorebirds

Our SPI Initiatives

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Sea Turtle Nesting Protection

Protecting endangered sea turtle nesting sites along South Padre Island beaches through daily monitoring, nest relocation, and hatchling release programs.

2023 Impact: Protected 87 nesting sites, resulting in 2,500+ successful hatchling releases in 2023.
🀝 Partners: Sea Turtle Inc., U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
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Beach Cleanup Initiative

Weekly beach cleanup programs removing plastic debris and marine pollution that threaten sea turtles, birds, and marine mammals.

2023 Impact: Removed over 15,000 pounds of trash from SPI beaches, creating safer habitats for marine life.
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Dune Restoration Project

Restoring natural sand dunes that protect inland ecosystems and provide critical nesting habitat for shorebirds and sea turtles.

2023 Impact: Restored 45 acres of dune habitat, planting 20,000 native dune grasses and coastal plants.
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Marine Wildlife Monitoring

Scientific monitoring programs tracking marine wildlife populations, migration patterns, and health indicators in Gulf waters.

2023 Impact: Established comprehensive baseline data for 47 marine species, informing conservation strategies.

Addressing Local Challenges

Coastal Development

In Progress

Rapid tourism and residential development threatening fragile coastal habitats and nesting sites.

Action: Working with developers and officials to implement wildlife-friendly development practices.

Plastic Pollution

Active

Increasing plastic debris washing ashore, endangering marine life through ingestion and entanglement.

Action: Enhanced cleanup programs and community education on plastic reduction.

Climate Change Impacts

Long-term Planning

Rising sea levels and changing weather patterns affecting nesting sites and coastal ecosystems.

Action: Adaptive conservation strategies and habitat restoration to increase resilience.

Tourism Pressure

Implemented

High visitor numbers can disturb wildlife and damage sensitive coastal areas.

Action: Education programs and responsible tourism guidelines for visitors.

Support Our Local SPI Mission

Whether you're a local resident or visitor, there are many ways to help protect South Padre Island's precious ecosystems.