RESEARCH AND MONITORING

Research Goals of the NERRS

The primary research objective for the NERRS is to determine the causes and effects of natural and anthropogenically-induced change in the ecology of estuarine and estuarine-like ecosystems. Research policy at the Reserve is designed in part to fulfill the NERRS goals as defined in the NERR program regulations. The research and monitoring goals of the NERRS include:

o      Addressing information needs of coastal management issues identified as significant through coordinated estuarine research within the system;

o      Promoting federal, state, public, and private use of one or more reserves within the system when such entities conduct estuarine research; and

o      Conducting and coordinating estuarine research within the system, gathering and making available information necessary for improved understanding, use and management of estuarine areas.

Users and Audience

The University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) and Reserve provides excellent opportunities for researchers. The Reserve is within easy driving distance of all coastal towns in South Texas and the cities of Corpus Christi, Rockport, Refugio, Victoria, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and its surrounding municipalities. It is anticipated that the majority of users will include non-profit institutions, and other users, such as, students of all ages, teachers, local residents and visitors. Another major user will be fellows from the Graduate Research Fellowship program sponsored by NOAA.

This Reserve has traditionally been an important area for commercial and recreational fishing, and hydrocarbon production, and will continue to be used by these interests. Designation of the Mission-Aransas NERR will not prohibit traditional uses of the area as described in the management plan. It is also anticipated that the Reserve will be used by various environmental interest groups, civic organizations, and private and professional societies for field trips and educational seminars.

National Estuarine Research Reserve System website

Return to MANERR Homepage