Opportunities From: Galveston Bay Foundation

Get dirty helping grow the Bay!

The Gessner Center is Galveston Bay Foundation’s new visitor hub in Kemah, TX. It will be home to our aquatic nursery program—where we grow and prepare wetland plants that are critical to restoring habitat, improving water quality, and supporting the long-term health of Galveston Bay.

As an Aquatic Nursery Volunteer, you will assist GBF staff with hands-on plant care.

Depending on the needs of the nursery, may help with watering, weeding, trimming, shifting plants, repotting wetland plants, and removing algae buildup from nursery ponds.

Some workdays may also include planting in our wetland pools and will be communicated in advance.

If you would like to help rotate or retrieve plants from the aquatic pools, you are encouraged to bring tall rubber boots.

Expect to get dirty and muddy!

By caring for nursery plants that will be used in restoration, you directly support healthier wetlands and a healthier Galveston Bay.

No experience is necessary. Staff will show you everythingyou need to know. Be prepared to walk across uneven terrain. Restrooms will be available onsite.

Learn more about getting to and parking at GBF Headquarters↗

All minors must be accompanied by a registered guardian or approved chaperone.

Grow native plants. Restore the prairie.

At the GBF EcoCenter Greenhouse, staff and volunteers cultivate native plants to restore and manage coastal tallgrass prairie across the Galveston Bay region.

Every Thursday and Saturday from 8:00–11:00 AM, volunteers work in the nursery to support one of the most endangered ecosystems in North America. This work helps create habitat for wildlife and strengthens natural flood protection.

NOTE: Saturday shifts are currently postponed until further notice. We hope to resume shifts as soon possible and will be sure to send out an email when they resume.

As a Nursery Volunteer, you will:

Weed and pot plants Mix soil and rotate plants Clean and sort seeds Assist with seasonal nursery maintenance

No experience is necessary; we will show you what to do! Minors can volunteer alongside an parent/guardian or an approved chaperone. 

Getting There

Search for “EcoCenter Sponsored by Reliant” when using Google Maps - View site on Google.com . Alternatively, you can enter the coordinates (29.750970027078534, -94.91775406482465) into your maps application as you would a street address. From TX-99 and W Bay Rd/Old F-M Rd 1405 Head north to turn into Bayer Rd. Turn left on the restricted road; you will see an EcoCenter directional sign (its like a small yard sign with a blue arrow). Continue on the restricted road for 200 ft until you reach the EcoCenter on the left.
Note: The Ecocenter does not have a public address and is a part of the larger NRG Cedar Bayou campus. Getting here can be complicated without a map application. Feel free to contact Starla Lawhon-Dyer, Volunteer Coordinator, at (832)536-2255 before you come for more help with how to get there.

Your time in the nursery helps grow native plants that restore habitat, support wildlife, and protect communities around Galveston Bay.

Make Wednesdays count for the coast

Join a growing community of volunteers who are restoring and caring for Galveston Bay’s habitats. Work alongside staff and fellow volunteers at our Gessner Center and see the impact of your efforts week by week.

This is a hands-on stewardship role where you will build practical skills, spend time outdoors, and be part of a team making visible progress each week.

As a Coastal Care Volunteer, you will:

Plant native species, remove overgrowth, and maintain habitat areas Use hand tools and assist with safe, organized fieldwork Help prepare and move tools, plants, and materials Learn directly from staff about coastal ecosystems and restoration

No experience needed. We provide all training, tools, and guidance. Just show up ready to help!

Restrooms and wifi available onsite. All tools and supplies provided. Minors (16+) welcome with a registered adult chaperone.

This role involves outdoor work in sun, mud, and uneven terrain. Review heat safety guidelines here.

Plan your visit and parking ↗

Your weekly effort restores habitat and helps create outdoor spaces where people can learn, explore, and connect with Galveston Bay.