Why is Galveston's water brown?

Galveston's water appears brown primarily due to high levels of sediment, organic matter, and phytoplankton in the Gulf of Mexico. The coastal area experiences significant runoff from rivers and rainfall, which carries silt, sand, and other particles into the water. Additionally, the presence of decaying plant material and microorganisms contributes to the murky coloration. These factors combined create the characteristic brownish hue of the water in Galveston.