Deer Island is an island off the coast of Biloxi, Mississippi that was once part of the mainland and is not a barrier island. It is the closest island to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and consists of approximately . In 2011, TITANTubes, sometimes referred to as geotubes, were utilized as low profile dune cores to protect the island. Debate For several years, local casinos tried to develop the island. However, the majority of the island was acquired by the State of Mississippi on May 24, 2002, which intends to preserve its current undeveloped state. Wildlife Deer island is home to 10 endangered species of plants and animals. References Further reading Deer Island becomes Coastal Preserve Retrieved 2-2-2009. Islands of Mississippi Barrier islands of Mississippi Landforms of Harrison County, Mississippi Protected areas of Harrison County, Mississippi