The Pros and Cons of the construction of the Bolivar Roads Gate System, as mentioned in the documentary “Chasing the Tide”

Overview

What was the key issue mentioned in episode two of “Chasing the Tide”? The problem mentioned was the construction of a gate system in Galveston Bay, also known as the Bolivar Roads Gate system. This system is part of a more significant Texas Coastal Project, known as the “Ike Dike.” The gate system of Galveston Bay is proposed to combat pre-storm surges that occur during intense weather systems, such as hurricanes. This storm surge has been a persistent problem in the area for decades, most recently evident on the Bolivar Peninsula after Hurricane Ike made landfall as an intense Category 2 hurricane.

Reasons why people do not support the project

So why would anyone be against a project that could save hundreds of lives? Environmentalists, such as those with the Galveston Bay Foundation, identify numerous problems associated with constructing a gate of this magnitude. The Corps of Engineers' most recent estimates indicate that significant permanent damage to the bay would result if the gate were built. The Corps estimates that water flows into the bay may be restricted by anything from 10 to 30%.  If true, this restriction of water flow would have extensive consequences on the wildlife in the area. Since the gate would heavily limit the amount of fresh water entering the bay, environmentalists are most concerned about the water quality of the bay and the loss of the wetlands. Since the project would require an extensive amount of concrete and artificial island, members of the bay association are worried that the water quality of the bay would deteriorate as a result. The wetlands around the bay would also disappear if flows are restricted.If the water quality were to deteriorate, fisheries would be vastly impacted. Since fish can not survive in poor water conditions, it is feared that a large population of fish would die. In turn, this would affect wildlife far inland of the bay. Many birds in the area rely on these fish for food and a source of protein. So if a large number of the fish die, it can be inferred that a large number of shore birds would die as well. The seafood industry, which relies on Galveston Bay, would practically disappear as the overall quality of the seafood would decrease severely. The gates, as well, are only projected to help prevent the surge associated with a category two storm. Many do not think it would be worth risking the bay and $ 50 billion to build a project that only combats category two hurricanes.

Reasons why the project has support

Although there are numerous negatives associated with building this gate, there are also several positives. The primary purpose of this gate is to combat the storm surge water that enters Galveston Bay. If the gate is able to accomplish this, thousands of homes and facilities would be safe from these dangerous rising waters, particularly critical infrastructure, such as the petroleum refineries that exist along the bay. The port of Houston, as well, would be protected, which could face up to $ 100 billion in damages if a severe storm produces a catastrophic storm surge. In building this gate, many think it would benefit both the economy and national security. Other ports, such as those in New Jersey, Boston, Charlotte, and Miami, have been in contact with those associated with the building of this gate, as they are also interested in protecting the assets that lie within their ports.

My personal opinion

Personally, I believe that this system should not be built. I fear that the consequences of building the system far outweigh the positives. I believe that the money allocated for installing the gate should be used to strengthen the infrastructure itself. There are many better ways to protect the industries around the bay that do not come at the cost of the bay itself.