Rebuilding oyster reefs to restore marine habitat and promote biodiversity 

Along the Gulf Coast, habitat loss, coastal erosion and storm surge have placed increasing pressure on communities and ecosystems. As natural defenses such as oyster reefs declined, marine habitats and water quality suffered while shorelines became more vulnerable to degradation. Without intervention, these risks would continue to intensify. Restoring oyster reefs offers a nature-based solution —  restoring the oyster ecosystem, improving water quality, reducing wave energy and rebuilding critical habitat for marine life. By reintroducing these natural systems, the project supports healthier ecosystems. 

Jacobs worked with The Nature Conservancy to support the restoration of oyster reefs along the Gulf Coast, combining ecological experience with engineering and design capabilities. We contributed to planning and design approaches that align restoration with coastal conditions and long-term performance. Integrating nature-based solutions into restoration strategies enabled us to deliver a project that rebuilds oyster habitat, leading to oyster colonization within 12 months of construction, enhancing biodiversity and impacting water quality positively. This more resilient ecosystem demonstrates how natural infrastructure can restore ecological function.