AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., announced that the Texas General Land Office (GLO) has awarded approximately $13.15 million to Ducks Unlimited Inc. through its Coastal Erosion Planning and Response Act (CEPRA) program Cycle 14. The money awarded will be used for shoreline protection projects along National Wildlife Refuge shorelines in Jefferson, Chambers, and Matagorda counties.
"The Texas coast was my home for many years, and as Land Commissioner, I am dedicated to ensuring our beaches are clean, safe, and enjoyable for all Texans," said Commissioner Buckingham. "By awarding these funds to Ducks Unlimited, Inc. through CEPRA, the GLO is committed to ensuring the shorelines in Jefferson, Chambers, and Matagorda counties remain strong and resilient for our future generations. I am honored to bring this much-needed funding to our coastal communities for these beneficial projects."
Left to right: Daniel Stanbery, Michael Plaza, Todd Merendino, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., Taylor Abshier, and Kevin Hartke at a Coastal Check Presentation on March 24, 2026
The shoreline projects across the three counties will include the construction of breakwater structures in Jefferson County, the installation of multiple nature-based shoreline protection segments to prevent marsh loss and create oyster habitat in Chambers County, and the protection of shoreline and tidal marsh on public land in Matagorda County.
CEPRA projects are focused on addressing coastal erosion concerns, implementing work that supports erosion reduction, including beach nourishment, dune restoration, shoreline stabilization, habitat restoration, and erosion investigations. CEPRA projects are funded with money from the Texas Legislature, Texas Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT), and GOMESA, along with partner match.
More information on the GLO’s coastal funding opportunities can be found by clicking the button below:
The new CMP Cycle 32 funding opportunity is now open for application solicitation. The CEPRA funding opportunity will reopen in March 2027.
Click the button below to view a list of counties and projects receiving funding:
Coastal Projects Receiving Funding
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Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas' first female Land Commissioner. As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe.