A wooden sign reading Flour Bluff I.S.D. Wetlands Environmental Education Center stands in grassy field under a blue sky with clouds. An illustrated wetland scene is pictured in the center of the sign.
Bond 2025

FBISD Hosts Wetlands Preservation Community Meeting

By January 30, 2026No Comments

FBISD Hosts Wetlands Preservation Community Meeting

On January 21, 2026, Flour Bluff ISD welcomed community partners to discuss the Wetlands Preservation Project, an effort supported by Bond 2025 and rooted in the original vision of Dorothy Arnold, whose early land donation helped establish the wetlands classroom for generations of Flour Bluff students.

The meeting reflected the ongoing involvement of organizations and individuals who have played a meaningful role in shaping the project’s direction. This work builds on early support from Superintendent Carol Moffett and longtime school board member Richard Pittman, whose leadership more than two decades ago helped set the foundation for developing the wetlands as an outdoor classroom for Flour Bluff ISD. Key organizational partners include:

  • Center for Water Supply Studies at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi
  • Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program
  • LJA Engineering
  • Naval Air Station Corpus Christi
  • The City of Corpus Christi
  • South Texas Master Naturalists
  • Seashore Charter Schools
  • Harte Research Institute
  • Texas A&M–Corpus Christi
  • Del Mar College
  • Audubon Outdoor Club
  • Youth Odyssey
  • Ducks Unlimited
  • Corpus Christi Army Depot
  • Texas Floating Classroom
  • Friends of Redhead Pond
  • Padre Island National Seashore
  • Port Aransas Museum
  • Texas State Aquarium
  • Texas Parks & Wildlife
  • School of Science & Technology
  • National Wildlife Federation
  • Hawk Watch International
  • Texas Surf Conservancy
  • Oso Bay Wetland Preserve
  • Texas Sealife Center
  • The University of Texas Marine Science Institute

The approximately 77‑acre wetlands remain one of Flour Bluff ISD’s most unique assets—an outdoor classroom offering hands‑on learning in water safety, water testing, habitat studies, coastal ecology, environmental science, and practical outdoor skills, including hiking, kayaking, fishing, and outdoor safety. This work stands on the legacy of Dorothy Arnold, whose generosity helped establish the original wetlands “classroom” so students could learn science where it happens: outdoors, on the coast, and in the field. Her vision continues to guide the district’s efforts to preserve the site, expand learning opportunities, and protect the land for future Hornets.

During the meeting, legendary OCEANS teacher Cliff Strain spoke about the decades‑long legacy of the site and its impact on student learning, research, and environmental stewardship. Dr. Dorina Murgulet of TAMU‑CC’s Center for Water Supply Studies provided insight into the pond systems and hydrology considerations that will inform planning and restoration efforts.

Jeff Coym, Mauricio Vera, and Flour Bluff graduate Jay Gardner of LJA Engineering presented updates on surveys, hydrology, drainage patterns, and early layout concepts. Discussions centered on modest, practical improvements that support instruction and safety while respecting the natural character of the wetlands, including:

  • Basic ADA‑accessible walking trails
  • A simple covered outdoor classroom
  • Low‑impact observation and sampling areas
  • Responsible access to freshwater ponds and restored habitats

These enhancements reflect Flour Bluff ISD’s commitment to protecting the wetlands, ensuring student and community safety, and being responsible stewards of taxpayer resources. The district remains dedicated to preserving this special educational resource, maintaining financial responsibility, and ensuring the wetlands continue to serve generations of Hornet students.

Future updates will be shared as planning progresses.

Thanks to the ongoing support of the Flour Bluff, Padre Island, Naval Air Station, and Corpus Christi Army Depot communities, Flour Bluff ISD remains committed to transparency and responsible stewardship throughout all Bond 2025 projects. These upgrades are already making a lasting impact on students, programs, and facilities across the district. To stay up to date on Bond 2025 and other district news, subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
A man with a beard and glasses on his head speaks in front of a wooden wall, holding a remote, with a screen displaying a map or diagram in the background.
FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
A man in a suit and tie speaks with another person in a white shirt inside an office or conference room with TV screens and yellow walls in the background.
FBISD Wetlands Community Meeting
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