Read the Mississippi Sound Estuary Program Comprehensive Conservation & Management Plan
On behalf of the Mississippi Sound Estuary Program (MSEP), we are pleased to present our inaugural Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP). This document represents the collective efforts of the MSEP Management Conference, staff, and their associated networks to identify priority actions needed to improve stewardship of the Mississippi Sound and its connected watersheds.
Become a Hubspot
for the upcoming “Art Doing Its Part” art and slogan campaign for high school across the state!
To raise awareness of the connection between local litter and the pollution of our waterways, Art Doing Its Part is a statewide art and slogan competition aimed at personalizing the issue for communities by showcasing litter challenges specific to their regions, illustrating how local actions impact local and distant environments. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, the contest encourages communities to take pride in their surroundings and actively participate in waste reduction, prevention, and cleanup efforts.
Each of the 7 selected agents will receive a $10,000 reimbursable stipend to offset the cost of their individual regional competitions.
Who we Are and What We Do
shaping the future of the Mississippi Sound
how you can support the program
Learn more about our programs
Basins of the Mississippi Sound Watershed
Healthy watersheds play a crucial role in safeguarding water quality and offer more advantages to the inhabitants than degraded ones.
One of the primary goals of the MSEP is the development of a Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan. The plan will serve as a guide in directing the efforts of stakeholders regarding preservation, restoration, resilience, and stewardship of the watersheds that drain into Mississippi Sound.
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 | 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM
REGISTRATION CLOSED | Homeschool Learning Lab
Topic: Bug Hotels
Join us for an engaging discussion about our native insects, followed by a hands-on activity where we’ll craft bug hotels using natural materials that can be found in y our backyard!
At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532
March 17, 2026 | 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM
Homeschool Learning Lab
Topic: Pollinators
Join us for a fun presentation all about our pollinators, the crucial roles they play in our ecosystem, and the Great Southeast Pollinator Census, followed by several fun hands-on activities that will certainly keep you ‘buzzing’!
At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532
June 8-12, 2026 | 8:00 AM- 3:00 PM
Mississippi Student Naturalist camp
Calling all students ages 14–17! Join us for an exciting 5-day summer camp exploring the incredible ecosystems of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Campers will discover the animals and plants these habitats support, learn how these ecosystems are managed, and dive into hands-on activities that highlight real volunteer opportunities. Along the way, students will build a deeper connection to the coast and be inspired to become stewards who help preserve and protect these vital ecosystems for the future. Students will gain the certification of Student Naturalist upon completion of the camp.
At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532
June 22-25, 2026 | 8:00 AM- 3:00 PM
2026 Teacher Workshop
Join the Coastal and Marine Extension Program for their third annual collaborative teacher workshop. Our in-house organizations, the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Program, Program for Local Adaptation to Climate Effects (PLACE), and Mississippi Sound Estuary Program will be leading an engaging, hands-on workshop that highlights our education/ outreach programs focused on educating students about conservation, restoration, and environmental stewardship. Earn 2.6 CEUs for completing the workshop!
At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532
