Link to story received from GLO Press Office – Website: www.glo.texas.gov – Email: media@glo.texas.gov – Phone: (512) 936-9582
AUSTIN, TX – Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., announced the successful removal of ACTA, the 51-foot fiberglass recreational vessel that was abandoned in Offatts Bayou in Galveston County as a result of Hurricane Beryl.
“As a former resident of Galveston Island for more than a decade, protecting and preserving our coastal waters has long been a priority of mine. Safely removing abandoned vessels is critical to the GLO’s mission to protect marine life, coastal communities, and those who enjoy our waterways from hazards such as leaking fuel, toxic chemicals, and navigational risks,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “I am thrilled that the ACTA yacht has been safely removed from Offatts Bayou through our partnership with the Gulf of America Alliance. I look forward to building on this success and continuing our work together to deliver meaningful wins for the Texas coast and the people and wildlife that call it home.”
The ‘ACTA’ is prepped for removal from Galveston on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) had been tracking the ACTA since 2024 and its removal was supported by the Gulf of America Alliance (GOAA). The abandoned vessel was taken apart piece by piece, before being lifted from the shoreline onto a barge to be hauled off and destroyed.
“We are proud to support this work in coordination with our Texas partners,” said Laura Bowie, Executive Director for the Gulf of America Alliance. “Removing these vessels improves coastal habitats for the people and wildlife that call this area home.”
Another photo of the removal from Galveston on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026
GOAA is supported by the NOAA Marine Debris Program to remove abandoned and derelict vessels across the Gulf Coast. The goals of the program include improving boater safety by removing hidden hazards, restoring natural water flow and reducing habitat degradation
The GOAA/GLO partnership continues to be a successful derelict vessel removal initiative for the GLO.
About Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D
Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas’ first female Land Commissioner. As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe.