Spurred by frequent requests from nature tourism organizations to work together, the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council and the Galveston Bay Area Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists took the lead to launch a partnership to “create a network that will advocate for Galveston Island conservation and preservation through the economic and cultural value of nature tourism.”

Formally titled the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Partnership, it’s now known as NTP for short. The group is made up of representatives of nonprofit organizations and public entities that provide nature tourism services, events and education to visitors and Galveston residents. Member organizations include: Artist Boat, Audubon Texas, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, Friends of Galveston Island Sate Park, Galveston Bay Foundation, Galveston County Audubon Group, Galveston Island State Park, Galveston Island Tree Conservancy, Galveston Park Board and CVB, Moody Gardens, Sea Star Base, Surfrider Foundation (Upper Texas Coast and Galveston Chapters), Texas Nature Conservancy, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and Turtle Island Restoration Network.

To date, this group has partnered with Galveston.com to develop a calendar of nature events for both visitors and residents. Member organizations share volunteers and collaborate on events and projects. The group meets quarterly for presentations and networking. If interested in learning more about this group, please email Julie Ann at dir@gintc.org.