Biloxi, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research and Extension Center is cultivating native wetland plants to restore coastal ecosystems. With 15,000 plants being nurtured, this initiative meets the rising demand for vegetation crucial to combat flooding and enhance wildlife habitats. Additionally, the City of Biloxi is pursuing an important project to create new habitats by filling 6.5 acres of wetlands at Point Cadet, currently requiring $4.7 million in funding. Public comments on this project are welcome until June 4, emphasizing community involvement in coastal restoration efforts.
Biloxi – Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research and Extension Center is making strides in coastal restoration through the cultivation of native wetland plants. These plants are essential for enhancing coastal ecosystems, providing habitats for various species of fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates, while also serving as natural barriers against flooding and storm conditions.
Currently, the greenhouse at the center is nurturing 15,000 plants, focusing on species such as smooth Cordgrass and Black Needlerush. This initiative is part of a broader program known as the Native Plant Producer Network, which launched in 2024. The program aims to meet the increasing demand for native wetland plants needed for living shoreline restoration projects. Despite the high local demand, many of these plants are not being produced in sufficient quantities.
Coastal & Marine Extension Director highlights that the aim of this program is to close the gap between the supply and demand of wetland plants critical for restoration work. The initiative plans to establish collaborations between local plant growers and contractors engaged in coastal restoration projects, enhancing the ecological restoration efforts.
In connection with these restoration efforts, the City of Biloxi is also pursuing approval from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources for a significant project to fill 6.5 acres of coastal wetlands at Point Cadet. This project aims to develop new habitats, supported by a grant that has financed its design and permitting, although construction costs are estimated at approximately $4.7 million, which is currently unfunded.
The application for this project was submitted on May 16 and is now undergoing a 30-day public comment period, allowing residents to offer their insights and feedback until June 4. The detailed 112-page application outlines studies, potential impacts, design plans, and alternative options, indicating that the project would feature marsh islands with emergent vegetation along with a protective emergent breakwater to mitigate erosion.
Additionally, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality has facilitated a $409,000 grant designated for the project’s design and permitting phases. This coastal habitat will incorporate diverse components like submerged reefs, submerged aquatic vegetation, and living shorelines equipped with riprap sill to enhance ecosystem resilience.
On the wildlife management front, Hurricane Francine, which hit Louisiana on September 11, has raised concerns about its effects on local migratory birds, with biologists reporting varying duck harvest numbers across different wildlife management areas (WMAs) in Louisiana. For instance, the Biloxi WMA recorded a duck harvest of 681 ducks during the most recent season. These harvests highlight the critical evaluation necessary for analyzing varying conditions across regions.
The ongoing problem of wetland loss in Louisiana underscores the urgent need for comprehensive restoration initiatives. Factors such as levee construction have led to intensive habitat degradation, which places wildlife and the vital fishing industry at risk. This loss of wetlands and other natural barriers exacerbates threats posed by flooding and coastal storms, necessitating immediate and concerted restoration actions.
As restoration initiatives continue to gain momentum, the efforts of institutions like Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research and Extension Center are vital for sustaining both wildlife habitats and the economy reliant on healthy coastal environments.
FAQs
What is the main goal of the Coastal Research Center in Biloxi?
The center aims to educate about and cultivate native wetland plants for coastal restoration efforts.
How many plants are currently being cultivated at the greenhouse?
There are approximately 15,000 plants, including species like smooth Cordgrass and Black Needlerush.
What is the purpose of the project at Point Cadet?
The project aims to fill wetlands to create new habitats and help prevent erosion.
How much funding is required for the project’s construction?
Construction costs are estimated at $4.7 million, which has not yet been secured.
What significant event impacts migratory birds in the area?
Hurricane Francine impacted local wildlife under management areas, reflecting in varied duck harvest numbers.
Key Features of Coastal Restoration Efforts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Plant Cultivation | 15,000 wetland plants being grown, including smooth Cordgrass and Black Needlerush. |
| Project Objective | Fill 6.5 acres of wetlands at Point Cadet to create habitats and combat erosion. |
| Funding Needs | Construction costs estimated at $4.7 million, currently unfunded. |
| Native Plant Producer Network | Established in 2024 to enhance the supply of native plants for restoration. |
| Public Participation | 30-day public comment period for project approval until June 4. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WLOX: MSU Coastal Research Center
- Louisiana Sportsman: Biloxi Marsh for Winter Redfish
- Tukios: Coastal Restoration
- BBC Future: Recycled Shells in Louisiana
- Louisiana Sportsman: Top Louisiana WMAs for Waterfowl
- Google Search: Coastal Restoration Initiatives
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
