MSI Public Lecture Series

The Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) brings together scientists, landowners, policy-makers, and the public to ensure that coastal management decisions benefit plants and animals, water quality, and people. The Mission-Aransas NERR is the 27th and newest site in the country.

The Mission-Aransas NERR has three programs, which match the missions of the Marine Science Institute: 1) Long-term monitoring and basic research, 2) Education and public outreach, and 3) Stewardship and technical assistance for resource management.  The research and monitoring program will improve understanding of the structure and function of Texas coastal ecosystems by implementing new projects such as monitoring water quality.  The education and outreach program will increase the understanding of coastal ecosystems through projects such as Elderhostel, teacher training, student field trips, and the Wetlands Education Center, which is under construction.  The stewardship program will promote public appreciation and support for protection of coastal resources through projects such as marine debris removal, habitat mapping, and land acquisition.

In this presentation, the leaders of the Mission-Aransas NERR will describe the activities already underway on the newest component of the national network of reserves.