Ribbon Cutting to Celebrate Completion of 2,000 feet of Living Shoreline on the Choctawhatchee Bay

Disclaimer: We are promoting this event on behalf of a local chamber member. This event is not managed or sponsored by the Destin Chamber.



The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners invites the public to commemorate the completion of 2,000 feet of living shoreline constructed in the Choctawhatchee Bay, with a ceremony at Ross Marler Park on Okaloosa Island on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. 

This multi-year effort utilized a cost-effective, nature-based solution to mitigate erosion and enhance the ecosystem surrounding nearby Veterans Park and Marler Park.

“This unique landscape is home to so many species that we need to protect,“ said Okaloosa County Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel (District 2). “This living shoreline will supplement their success, the health of our bay and extend the life of these wonderful parks.”

The installation of this living shoreline is much more cost-effective than traditional shoreline barriers and coincides with the proper intention of these parks for visitors while recognizing the importance of the natural surroundings.

“Projects like these involve a team from multiple departments in the County,” said Okaloosa County Vice Chairman Drew Palmer (District 5). “I want to thank the engineers, project managers, coastal scientists and grant specialists who worked together to complete this project and ensure that our shorelines are protected for the future enjoyment of the public.”

The living shoreline will also minimize erosion maintenance costs and can even grow the shoreline over time. The project funding consists of $1.5 million in tourism bed tax revenue, a $1.5 million grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and $1.6 million from the RESTORE Council through the Gulf Consortium.

“It’s never wrong to be good stewards of the blessings that surround us, and thankfully, this now includes our shoreline,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Sherri Cox (District 3).

Learn more about the benefits of Living Shorelines here.