The National Marine and Fisheries Service (NMFS) has authority for enforcing the Endangered Species Act (ESA) regarding marine animals, include sea turtles and marine mammals. If you see a violation, immediately contact the 24-hour NMFS Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964. You may also call the U.S. Coast Guard Hotline at (800) SAVE-FISH.

Texas has its own list of endangered and threatened species in the state. Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife at 1-800-792-GAME (4263).

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has jurisdiction over the remaining endangered species, those protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and those protected by the various federal-level game laws. You can assume that virtually any bird seen at San Luis Pass is protected, or is regulated through state and federal game laws. Contact the USFWS at the following address:

Office of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 329
Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA 87103
Phone(505)248-7889 Fax:(505)248-7899

The Texas General Land Office controls ownership of lands protected for the citizens through the Texas Open Beach Act. The US Army Corps of Engineers (along with the EPA) is responsible for regulating wetlands.

Finally, contact the City of Galveston and let them know about your disgust with their disinterest. Galveston is about to have a city election, and there will be a new mayor. For the time being, though, you can contact Mayor Thomas directly.

Ted Eubanks
17 April 2010