What does the term "coastal line" refer to in Texas?

The term "coastal line" in Texas specifically refers to the line of mean low tide along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. This designation is significant in land surveying and coastal management as it establishes an important reference point for defining boundaries, property rights, and regulatory frameworks concerning coastal resources. Understanding mean low tide as the baseline is crucial because it provides consistency and predictability when assessing land use, navigation, and environmental protection measures along Texas's coastal areas.

This reference point impacts various legal and environmental considerations, including jurisdictional claims and coastal erosion management. By recognizing mean low tide as the relevant coastal boundary, surveyors, land planners, and environmentalists can appropriately manage and safeguard the coastal ecosystem while respecting property rights and state regulations.