The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA), in collaboration with Okaloosa County Coastal Resources, Oyster Corps, and FORCE BLUE, has successfully kicked off a major coastal restoration project at Liza Jackson Park. Sponsored by Publix, this initiative aims to create a living oyster reef shoreline, enhance habitat restoration, and strengthen coastal resilience.Veterans from FORCE BLUE, a unique organization that redeploys retired special operations veterans on conservation missions, made an extraordinary contribution. Over 2 days, they moved 40 tons of limestone substrate, a remarkable start to building what will become a thriving oyster reef. This project not only underscores the importance of collaboration between veterans and conservationists but also highlights the unique and inspiring role that veterans play in preserving our coastal environments.
As Executive Director of CBA, Alison McDowell admired FORCE BLUE's dedication, stating, "When I first heard about Force Blue, I was so inspired by their coastal conservation mission. After working with them for the past two days, I can say that their work ethic and passion for conservation were just as inspiring in person. CBA, the Okaloosa County Coastal Resources Team, Oyster Corps, and FORCE BLUE worked together seamlessly to move an amazing 40 tons of rock in just under 4 hours, and every minute was fun!"
This multi-organization partnership marks an exciting step forward in the restoration of Liza Jackson Park's shorelines. It also sets the foundation for future oyster reefs, which will not only improve water quality, prevent erosion, and create habitat for marine life but also bring a sense of hope and optimism for the long-term health of our coastal environments.
FORCE BLUE's mission is clear
• recruit highly skilled veterans,
• train them in marine conservation, and
• redeploy them on critical environmental missions.
Their work not only benefits coastal communities but also offers veterans a chance to continue serving in a new, meaningful way.
For more information about this project or how to get involved, visit basinalliance.org.
