Harte Research Institute Annual Report 2014

2014 ANNUAL REPORT “The Harte Model is not just about interdisciplinary research, it is also about how to use it, both at the institutional level and individual level.” ­— Dr. Larry McKinney Executive Director .

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR This was another banner year for HRI, headlined by the 2014 State of the Gulf of Mexico Summit. Our third successful Summit, it has become the institute’s signature event. The consistent theme of finding common ground and building partnerships to advance actions that contrib­ute to an economically and environmentally sustainable Gulf of Mexico res­onated across an energized audience during the 2014 Summit. I have seen constant reference to the Summit in RESTORE activities since the event, and am excited to see that it has had real staying power to foster action for the good of the Gulf.

When Ed Harte said, “Make a difference,” he meant that HRI should always make an effort to take the science we generate and apply it actively to solving the problems we face here in the Gulf of Mexico region. This mission is what distinguishes HRI from all other marine research institutions. Our chairs are committed to their research and have stellar reputations in their respective fields, but they are not satisfied to rest on their laurels. They have the desire and drive to take their expertise and put it to work in the world outside academia. One means of doing so is to bring together diverse stakeholders from across the five Gulf States to share knowledge with the goal of generating actions that ad­dress our common problems.

For HRI, 2014 was all about this very important aspect of the Harte Model.

The State of the Gulf of Mexico Summit may have been our headliner, but as you will see in this report the year was full of opportunities — from fish to turtles — to follow Ed Harte’s instruction and make a difference. The Harte Model is not just about interdisciplinary re­search but how to use it — both on an institutional and individual level. As you read through this report, it will become very clear and I could not be more proud of our chairs, staff and students.

I cannot wait for what next year will bring, and I hope you will join us in mak­ ing it happen!

Larry D. McKinney, Ph.D.

HRI'S VISION A Gulf of Mexico that is ecologically and economically sustainable

2014 ANNUAL REPORT

CONTENTS CREDITS HRI Building Photos: Joe Aker, Aker Imaging

HRI Reaching Out

04

Graduates

30

Photo Page 8: S. Flory

International

10

Harte’s Heroes

34

Spotlight Projects

14

Our Support

36

Our People

18

Science by the Numbers

38

Partnerships

22

Books

40

Photo Page 12: J. Cancelmo Photo Page 21: The Houston Museum of Natural Science Photos Page 23: NOAA Okeanos Explorer and Charles Fischer/Wikipedia Bird Photo (Cover) & Page 35: Liz and Dave Smith

OUR MISSION Science driven solutions to Gulf of Mexico problems

2

HRI REACHING OUT SUMMIT 2014 Can the Gulf of Mexico’s ecosystem be fully restored following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill?

The Harte Research Institute took on this complex question at its 2014 Gulf of Mexico Summit.

That question framed HRI’s aspiration to ensure that the opportunities emerging from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill tragedy will not be missed.

“HRI’s goals for the Summit were as ambitious as ever,” said Dr. Larry McKinney, Executive Director of HRI. “Restoring this valuable resource following the Deepwater Horizon spill will require detailed understanding and intelligent effort. This year’s Summit established the foundation for action.”

In preparation for the Summit, the planning team set out to: •

connect science and restoration efforts to inform decision-making and identify where critical gaps in our knowledge impede progress to our common vision,

•

advance restoration that contributes to the broader Gulf of Mexico ecosystem,

•

link state, federal and Non-governmental Organization (NGO) restoration strategies in common purpose,

•

ensure Gulf restoration and national ocean policy complement rather than conflict to build synergy and not discord, and

•

define the role of business and industry in

44

the restoration process, building upon their unique strengths to collectively achieve these goals.

The Summit opened on the first day with the topic “The Science of Gulf Restoration”, with plenary sessions focused on Coastal Resiliency and Science-Based Restoration. Day two examined “The Roles in Gulf Restoration” by bringing together conservation and business perspectives. Day three featured “Gulf Restoration Perspectives” with an emphasis on the international impact of the Gulf. The closing sessions of the fourth day outlined the importance of “An Economically and Ecologically Sustainable Gulf of Mexico.”

This knowledgeable group of ocean advocates provided up-to-date data and offered sound, data driven rationale for investing wisely to restore and protect these resources. This information supports the premise that science based, strategic investments will produce both substantial economic returns and human health benefits for the Gulf of Mexico.

“Even four years after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, we only have initial data on the ecological effects on the open ocean, deep bottoms and the shallow continental shelf portions of the Gulf ecosystem,” said Dr. McKinney. “The Deepwater Horizon tragedy can provide a means to help ensure an economically and ecologically healthy Gulf of Mexico by generating unprecedented restoration funding, if those dollars are used wisely.”

GULF & CARIBBEAN FISHERIES INSTITUTE Fisheries biologists, students, scientists, marine protected area researchers, managers, fishers and representatives from various government departments and conservation groups gathered for the 66th Annual Conference of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) in Corpus Christi, Texas. Key session topics included the control and management of the invasive lionfish, economic opportunities associated with reef fishing and sustainable fisheries, the implementation and future challenges of marine protected area, and the importance of conserving natural and artificial reef fisheries.

•

Evaluation and Applications of Data-Limited Stock Assessment Methods

•

Biology, Ecology and Assessment of Marine Invertebrate Fisheries

•

Fish Spawning Aggregations

•

Management and Socio-Economics of Marine Fisheries

•

Science and Management of Marine Protected Areas

“Natural reefs have been hotspots of biodiversity and productivity for centuries, and now artificial reefs are very important in our region,” said HRI Executive Director Larry McKinney, who delivered the keynote presentation. “However, there are heated discussions on the role and function of artificial habitats such as oil and gas platforms.

By addressing these critical issues we can provide the knowledge to aid in the debate.”

•

Governance and Recreational Fisheries

•

Essential Fish Habitats and Marine Aquaculture

Hundreds of presentations were delivered during the five days of the meeting covering a wide range of topics, such as: •

Biology, Ecology, and Assessment of Reef Fishes

•

Natural and Artificial Reef Fisheries, Research and Conservation

•

Lionfish Biology, Control and Management

Since 1947, the nonprofit GCFI has championed the sustainable use, wise management, conservation and restoration of marine resources in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean region. Each year, the annual GCFI Conference provides a forum for the exchange of information and perspectives among decision-makers, scientists, managers, educators, students and resource users. This was the first time since 2003 that the conference has been held in the U.S. Dr. Alejandro Acosta, GCFI Program Chair said: “By bringing together scientists from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean, we were able to exchange ideas on ways to strengthen our common goal of managing and marketing our global resources.”

5

TURTLE WORKSHOP Of the world’s seven sea turtle species, five - leatherback, hawksbill, green, loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley - have been documented at Padre Island National Seashore. Each of these five sea turtle species living in waters of the Gulf of Mexico is now classified as either threatened or endangered and could become extinct unless steps are taken to protect and enhance its populations.

HRI hosted experts from several organizations including Texas Sea Grant, Padre Island National Seashore, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a workshop to discuss the future of sea turtle conservation efforts. Engaging knowledgeable, committed advocates to explore solutions to Gulf challenges opens opportunities to ensure a sustainable future.

TEXAS ARTIFICIAL REEF PROGRAM HRI hosted the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Artificial Reef Program’s first annual Science and Research Consortium. This meeting brought together researchers from TPWD, HRI’s Center for Sportfish Science and Conservation, UT-Brownsville, Texas A&M University at Galveston, and the USGS. Presentations of current research findings and plans for the future of Texas artificial reef research offered participants the opportunity to better understand the importance of these valuable assets. Future Consortium meetings will be expanded to include participants from other areas of the Gulf of Mexico to reflect the integrated nature of the artificial reef systems.

RESTORE MEETING Billions of dollars will go to states affected by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill as part of a federal law known as the RESTORE Act. HRI hosted a workshop of Texas coastal scientists in coordination with Dr. Robert Kröger, former chief science officer of the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council. The council will be responsible for the allocation of the RESTORE funds. Leading Texas coastal researchers from six academic research institutions attended the workshop to provide input on science-based “restoration issues of importance” for the Gulf of Mexico Large Marine Ecosystem. Topics included how to define best available science, an important concept used when evaluating competing projects. Scientists also discussed gulf and ocean monitoring, as well as the restoration science needs of the council. This effort created a network of Texas restoration scientists to provide expertise and assistance for the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council.

“This is a great responsibility for us, as the stewards of this resource, and we will continue to get better at managing the Gulf of Mexico in a sustainable way, so my boys and their kids will all know that we have been blessed beyond measure to live adjacent to such a magnificent body of water.”

—Commissioner Toby Baker State of the Gulf of Mexico Summit 2014

7

INTERNATIONAL TRI-NATIONAL MEETING The Tri-national Initiative for Marine Science and Conservation in the Gulf of Mexico and Western Caribbean held its sixth workshop at the Harte Research Institute. This year’s workshop was a historic milestone as 15 scientists from Cuba were in attendance, making this the largest delegation from Cuba to visit the United States in more than two decades. Their focus was on key marine science issues facing the Gulf of Mexico and western Caribbean Sea including fisheries, marine mammals, sharks, sea turtles, coral reefs and marine protected areas. The Tri-national Workshop serves as a platform for scientists, government officials and other experts from Cuba, Mexico and the United States to discuss common regional objectives and report progress on research projects shared by the three countries.

Outcomes from this year’s workshop included:

ISLAND TO ICE

•

adding the regional lionfish epidemic to the Fisheries group under the banner of “Invasive Marine Species”,

•

expanding the Sharks group to include rays, which are similar to sharks and are subject to the same issues, and

•

forming a committee to address data sharing and the challenges to communications and information exchange, especially via internet.

The importance of enhanced exchange programs for postdoctoral students from the United States, Mexico and Cuba continues to be a very important issue. Political and social obstacles have left fellowships unutilized. Continuing efforts to promote well designed fellowships would encourage and foster cooperation and collaboration.

The expertise of HRI’s team is in demand in places as far reaching as the McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Dr. Paul Montagna has been funded to conduct environmental monitoring there since 2000. In November and December 2013, HRI Research Associate Terry Palmer sampled sediments from beneath the frigid ice, packed them up and shipped them home to HRI for analysis.

Determining the effects of contamination on the local ecological communities helps the United States meet its obligations under the Antarctic Treaty.

Montagna’s team specifically focuses on the effects of humans on the marine and terrestrial environments. Parts of the sea floor adjacent to McMurdo Station are incredibly polluted and therefore the study design and methods used at McMurdo Station are useful in other regions of the world where contamination has occurred.

Although science is the main objective, helping to build an understanding of the science is important as well. An interactive blog entitled “Island to Ice” (www.islandtoice.org) provides opportunities to interact with the research team by posing questions which are answered on the blog. In addition, the team offers public lectures and classroom visits before and after each trip.

10

COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS Recognizing that the waters, fish and other organisms in the Gulf of Mexico know no political boundaries, HRI has consistently worked to build strong, cooperative relationships with Mexico and Cuba. In Houston, Texas, at the State of the Gulf of Mexico Summit 2014, HRI formalized another important relationship by signing the first government agency agreement with the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (INEGI; National Institute of Statistics and Geography).

HRI’s first Cooperative Agreement was signed during the groundbreaking ceremony of the HRI building on the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi campus in 2003 with Fondo Mexicano para la Conservacíon de la Naturaleza, A.C. (Mexican Fund for the Conservation of Nature).

HRI now has seven signed cooperative agreements, including: •

Universidad Veracruzana (University of Veracruz; 2009)

•

Universidad Autonoma de Campeche (University of Campeche; 2011)

•

CINVESTAV-IPN, Unidad Mérida (Unidad Mérida del Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, or Mérida Unit of the Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute; 2011)

•

Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education; this agreement is specifically with the Water Center for Latin America and the Caribbean at Monterrey Tech, and it also includes the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University; 2012)

•

Universidad Autonoma de Yucatán (Autonomous University of Yucatan; 2013).

HRI continues to look for opportunities to grow these important relationships. Two additional cooperative agreements with partners in Cuba are in development - one with the Acuario Nacional de Cuba (National Aquarium of Cuba), and the other with the leading academic marine research entity, Centro de Investigaciones Marinas (Center for Marine Research) associated with the University of Havana, the leading university in Cuba.

HRI understands the synergy developed through these cooperative agreements. Continuing to build these relationships supports HRI’s vision of a Gulf of Mexico that is ecologically and economically sustainable.

11

RETURN TO ALACRÁN REEF DR. WES TUNNELL REVISITS PRIME NESTING AREA IN MEXICO

By Dr. Wes Tunnell, HRI Associate Director/Endowed Chair for Biodiversity and Conservation Science

In May, I had the opportunity to return to one of my favorite places, Alacrán Reef, the largest coral reef in the Gulf of Mexico.

Jesse Cancelmo, who is writing a new book in one of our HRI-Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Book Series, had arranged the trip earlier with the Alacrán Reef National Park and, since he knew I’d been there years before, invited me along. Located around 70 miles north of Progresso, Yucatan Peninsula, the reef is about 15 miles long and six miles wide, so its atoll-like shape can be seen from space. Besides having some of the best and most diverse coral reefs in the Gulf of Mexico, it has five islands that are prime nesting localities for sea turtles and colonial sea birds.

We stayed on Isla Pérez, the largest of Alacrán’s islands, and home to the lighthouse and lighthouse keeper for Alacrán, as well as a detachment of Mexican Navy personnel. The National Park now has two small wooden cabins on the island. That is where we stayed. We got to dive two tanks per day over three days, and I am happy to report that the reefs are in good shape. Jesse even got to photograph some new growth of the endangered elk horn and staghorn coral, and we never saw a single lion fish.

During 1985–86 I lived with my family in the northern Yucatan on a Fulbright Scholar Award and had the opportunity to study the coral reefs

all around the Yucatan Peninsula. Visiting and studying the sea birds on Alacrán, Cayo Arenas, and Cayos Arcos was one of the biggest thrills of my biological career. There were huge colonies of Masked Booby, Magnificent Frigate Bird, and Sooty Tern, plus smaller colonies of Brown Booby, Brown Noddy and other tern species. In addition, we recorded Red-footed Booby nesting for the first time in the Gulf of Mexico on Isla Desertora at Alacrán. So, to get to return, even just for a few days to check on the birds, was exciting.

At the end of the nesting season in July 1986, I estimated there were only around 28,000–30,000 Sooty Tern. But this year, right in the middle of nesting, I estimated somewhere between 250,000 to 300,000. The Masked Booby and Frigate Birds were at the end of their nesting season on Isla Desertora, but the two Red-footed Booby nests we counted in 1986 were now up to at least eight nests and probably 10. Alacrán Reef and islands remains as one of the true natural treasures of the Gulf of Mexico.

NOTE: Jesse’s previous book Texas Coral Reefs is a beautiful photo journal of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary coral reefs, located 110 miles south of Galveston, Texas. His new book will photo document our beautiful coral reefs in all three countries around the Gulf: United States, Mexico, and Cuba.

SPOTLIGHT PROJECTS TEXAS GENERAL LAND OFFICE Every five years, Texas must submit a Coastal Program Assessment and Strategy to NOAA’s Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. The State’s lead administrative agency for the Texas Coastal Management Program is the Texas General Land Office (TGLO). HRI is pleased to be working with them to develop the assessment and strategy for the 2016–2020 Enhancement cycle.

HRI will determine problems and enhancement opportunities within each of nine enhancement areas – wetlands, coastal hazards, public access, marine debris, cumulative and secondary impacts, special area management plans, oceans and Great Lakes resources, energy and government. In addition, HRI will evaluate the effectiveness of existing management efforts to address identified problems. The study has three areas of emphasis: •

statutes, regulations, policies, and case law relevant to enhancement areas,

•

comprehensive assessment of identified high priority needs, and

•

clearly defined steps to develop strategies that reflect OCRM, CMP, and stakeholder/public input.

NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT Dr. Paul Montagna has participated in a cooperative effort to help identify impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Beginning in 2011, he has studied deep-water sediments and resident benthic fauna in support of the Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) injury-assessment process. The effort includes enumerating and identifying macrofauna in a selected number of sediment cores. Macrofauna, bottom-dwelling invertebrates, are important to the overall functioning of deep-sea ecosystems. The cores studied by Dr. Montagna were taken as part of three different cruises: the initial response cruise in Fall 2010, Spring 2011 and Spring 2014.

The Coastal and Marine Geospatial Lab is investigating the impact of oiling from the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill on marsh erosion. This work is being conducted on behalf of NOAA as part of the Trustees Natural Resource Damage Assessment.

Determining how oiling impacted (and continues to impact) protective and productive marshes in Louisiana and throughout the spill area is crucial. This investigation will determine damage and guide mitigation efforts for recovery of these environmentally sensitive areas.

14

DESALINATION Growing populations and industrial demands have stressed the supply of surface and ground water. In addition, changing climate patterns have influenced rainfall totals result­ing in persistent drought conditions for much of the State of Texas. This demand has fueled the need for a strategic approach for quality water for people and industries.

In Texas, several cities and water entities have been considering desalination in recent years as a means of supplementing current fresh­water resources. The City of Corpus Christi re­cently embarked upon a variable salinity desali­nation demonstration project to learn region-specific costs for establishing a desalination plant to supplement the City’s reservoir system, Lake Texana, and Lower Colorado River Water Resources. This small-scale demonstra­tion project will integrate groundwater with both the intake and outfall seawater to keep the sa­linity lower, saving money and energy as well as being more environmentally friendly with the salt concentrate at the outfall. Once completed in late 2015, the City of Corpus Christi will have a clear concept of the cost and feasibility of building a large-scale desalination plant.

Freese & Nichols, Inc., the lead engineering company on the project, invited HRI scien­tists to participate because of their 200+ years of collective expertise. HRI’s role includes: •

identifying and characterizing potential environmental impacts related to the intake and discharge of the desalination plant and suggesting mitigations measures for impacted species and habi­tats: Dr. Larry

McKinney, Dr. Paul Montagna, Dr. Greg Stunz, and Dr. Wes Tunnell, •

reviewing relevant environmental stud­ ies and literature related to intake and discharge locations: Dr. Jim Gibeaut, Dr. Montagna, Dr. Stunz, and Dr. Tunnell,

•

researching marine law regarding seawa­ter intakes and concentrate disposal: Dr. Rich McLaughlin,

•

researching red tide events in the Corpus Christi, Bay, Oso Bay, and Nueces Bay: Dr. Montagna, Dr. Stunz, and Dr. Tunnell,

•

providing input on permitting strategies for desalination facilities in the Corpus Christi area: Dr. Gibeaut, Dr. McLaughlin and Dr. Tunnell, and

•

participating in public meetings and outreach to provide information to help in understanding the project and providing information regarding benefits and impacts.

To further the desalination research and study, HRI joined with Freese & Nichols on another request for qualifications to study a potential desalination plant that would supply “industrial grade” water for industry.

With sound science and strong public policy, di­ versifying water resources to include desalina­ tion could benefit natural environmental flows of freshwater streams and rivers in addition to the benefits sustained by people, industry, and possibly agriculture.

15

18

OUR PEOPLE DR. DAVID YOSKOWITZ

DR. PAUL MONTAGNA

NAMED NOAA CHIEF ECONOMIST

MONTAGNA RECOGNIZED AS OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR

Dr. David Yoskowitz, HRI Endowed Chair for SocioEconomics, is adding to his accomplishments.

Effective July 14, 2014, he began a one-year appointment as the Chief Economist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

In his role as Chief Economist, Yoskowitz will provide intellectual leadership to develop, coordinate and implement an agency-wide social science vision and strategy. He will also represent NOAA in high-level departmental and interagency policy discussions that center on economic decisions and NOAA management functions.

Yoskowitz is a recognized expert in the field of economics and social science, particularly as pertains to marine and ocean resources and the application of policy. He was selected for the position based on his experience in the administration and management of economic and social science studies and his ability to build consensus among groups with diverse viewpoints on complex and often sensitive issues.

Based at the NOAA facility in Silver Spring, Maryland, Yoskowitz will also: •

oversee development of cutting edge research and analysis methodologies to advance scientific, social and environmental activities of strategic importance to NOAA,

•

identify and provide economic and social science analysis of emerging environmental issues including climate change, catch shares, marine planning, and ecosystem based management, and

•

Interact with special interest groups such as conservationists, private enterprise, nonprofits, the Congress, the Administration and international concerns.

Dr. Paul Montagna, Endowed Chair for Ecosystem Studies and Modeling, received the distinguished William A. Niering Award for Outstanding Educator in November 2013. This award, which honors an individual who has played a particularly important role in education and outreach at any level, was presented at the Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation biennial meeting. Montagna was recognized for his spirit and his accomplishments. He effectively draws from lessons of the past, focuses on the problems of today, and provides his students the skills to plan for the emerging challenges of the future.

Montagna’s students describe him as supportive, thoughtful and honest, and a beloved mentor. He not only teaches about science, but also what it means to be a scientist, and the responsibility that his students and colleagues have to communicate science. Currently, he mentors 13 graduate students at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Throughout his approximately 40 year career, has directly supervised 33 graduate students and 19 postdoctoral scientists. In addition, serves as Coordinator of the Coastal & Marine System Science Doctoral Program.

Montagna’s efforts extend well beyond the classroom. He led the effort to establish the Mission Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, contributed directly to K-12 public education through his extensive volunteer activities which included a decade of service on the Port Aransas Independent School District Board. He frequently visits local elementary and middle schools to encourage and inspire the next generation of aquatic scientists.

The selection of Dr. Yoskowitz for this prestigious appointment reflects the talent of the HRI team and provides a significant opportunity to provide leadership on local coastal resource management issues at the federal level.

18

DR. GREG STUNZ

DR. LARRY McKINNEY

Dr. Greg Stunz, HRI Endowed Chair Fisheries and Ocean Health, was selected by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Sue Pritzker to serve on Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council.

He was nominated by Governor Rick Perry to represent the State of Texas. During his threeyear term, Stunz, HRI’s Director of the Center for Sportfish Science and Conservation will work closely with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s Fisheries Service. The Council will develop fishery management plans for marine fish stocks in the Gulf of Mexico.

Larry McKinney, Ph.D., Executive Director for Harte Research Institute received the appointment as Chairman for the Commission on Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Management. The commission envisions a marine fisheries management system that conserves fishery resources, provides consistency in regulations, and produces the full range of saltwater recreational fishing’s economic, social and conservation benefits for the nation.

SERVING ON GOM FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

CHAIRMAN FOR COMMISSION ON SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT

The Gulf Council is one of only eight regional fishery councils established to end over-fishing, rebuild fish stocks, and manage their sustainability. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council focuses on fishery resources within the federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

In 2013, the Commission debated strategies to improve saltwater recreational fisheries management. Engaging in high level discussion, the commission reviewed the best available data and input. Through this process, the commission established a vision for saltwater recreational fishing which recognizes the importance of a marine fisheries management system that conserves fishery resources, provides consistency in regulations, and produces the full range of saltwater recreational fishing’s economic, social and conservation benefits. Key strategies included: •

a national policy for recreational fishing,

•

a revised approach to saltwater recreational fisheries management that promotes both conservation and access,

•

allocation of marine fisheries for the greatest benefit to the nation,

•

reasonable latitude in stock rebuilding timelines,

•

a process for cooperative management, and

•

Managing for the forage base.

These strategies establish the foundation for a management system that addresses the needs of anglers and industry. In addition, it fulfills a full range of economic, social and conservation benefits provided by recreational fishing.

19

PARTNERSHIPS THE HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE SHARKS! EXHIBIT

Scientists and researchers with the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies and the Center for Sportfish Science and Conservation joined with the Houston Museum of Natural Science to add some “science” into the “fiction” surrounding sharks. The HRI team contributed photos and information panels that to complement the exhibit.

Hollywood has sensationalized the shark as an underwater villain, when in fact, it is this apex predator who is under attack. Dr. Wes Tunnell, HRI Associate Director and Endowed Chair of Biodiversity and Conservation Science, developed the exhibit’s marine biology section. Tunnell is the Curator of Marine Biology at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and Project Manager for the “SHARK!” exhibition. Guests can experience an interactive, informative, live touch tank experience, call up real time data to see where great white sharks are hanging out in the Gulf of Mexico and learn about the incredible scientists and their shark conservation efforts taking place throughout the world.

SHARK! provides an opportunity to educate the public, change perceptions and eliminate the fear. Although there

are a few shark attacks on people each year, the sharks are actually more threatened by people. Shark populations are in a state of crisis as a result of our human activities -that damage ecosystems, and reduce populations through relentless over-fishing. Through education and interaction, children and their parents gain appreciation for this important species. This special limited engagement will only be open at the Houston Museum of Natural Science through September 7, 2015. The Texas State Aquarium is scheduled to be the next stop for this entertaining and important exhibit.

DISCOVERY CHANNEL

SHARK WEEK A warning of “Be Careful What You Fish For...” can only mean one thing... it’s “Shark Week.” For 27 seasons, Discovery Channel has brought viewers up close and personal with all things shark. 2014 was no exception. From new technology including underwater cameras and gadgetry to old school cages and poles, the viewers were treated to a week-long “shark-a-palooza.”

Contributing to the understanding of this valuable species through the Discovery Channel’s entertaining, quality programming were two of HRI’s research scientists, Dr. Greg Stuntz, Endowed Chair, Fisheries and Ocean Health and Dr. Matt Ajemian, Assistant Research Scientist. In the episode titled “Monster Hammerhead,” they bravely ventured out with a group of anglers to find a legendary giant hammerhead that has been patrolling Florida’s coastline for the past 60 years. If found, the hammerhead would be

caught, tagged with a satellite tracker and released back into the water to learn more about where these sharks may be moving and what habitats they are using.

Discovery Channel invited Dr. Stunz and Dr. Ajemian because they recognized the importance of their work for the health and well-being of the species. They are researching shark behavior and population trends off the Texas coast.

In addition, they have tracked and studied real-time movements of four sharks outfitted with satellite tracking tags. The research team has placed tags on 1,200 sharks. Information generated from these tags provides better understanding of different species, geographic preferences, and interconnections between populations off the Texas coast and in the rest of the Gulf of Mexico. One shark that Stunz tagged covered over 600 miles in just a few months, swimming from Corpus Christi to Houston and then back down to Mexico. Ultimately, this research will provide a better understanding of shark migration patterns to improve conservation practices and sustainability for all sharks.

22

BP

DEEP SEA FIELD GUIDE BP joined with HRI to better understand the mysterious world that exists far below the surface of the Gulf of Mexico. Deepwater oil and gas exploration has introduced new opportunities and challenges. Just because this exploration is taking place underwater doesn’t mean that environmental considerations can be overlooked. Before an exploratory underwater well is drilled, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) requires an environmental assessment study.

Due to the depth of these wells, the only tool up to the task is a remotely-operated underwater vehicle (ROV). The ROVs, operated by highly trained pilots, are outfitted with video and still cameras to capture images. This information is vitally important to understand the habitat that exists almost a mile beneath the surface of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Gulf of Mexico’s sea floor features sensitive habitats such as natural hydrocarbon seeps containing specialized chemosynthetic autotrophic biota. Without the information gathered through ROV exploration, BP might not be aware of the importance of avoiding these areas and relocating their drilling. However, ROV pilots are not normally biologists. To assist in the identification, HRI scientists have taken on the task of researching and compiling a list of environmentally sensitive deep-sea species of macrofauna.

This research will be compiled for use as a resource for BP’s ROV pilots. Once the key species have been identified, HRI will source images -- photographs, video capture, or museum species -- and develop visual tools for reference. These will be compiled into a deep sea “field guide” with a miniposter and a flip book with images, taxonomic identification, and other information including habitat, depth, body shape, color, etc.

This important tool will provide the ROV pilots with a key resource when completing BOEM’s required ROV Survey Report. Quality information and identification will have significant long-term benefit on the sustainability of the Gulf of Mexico.

23

EXXONMOBIL

ECOSYSTEM SERVICES VALUATION Preserving the ability of the environment to provide valued ecosystem services is one of the objectives of environmental management. With the growth of exploration in deepwater environments, integrating the considerations of ecosystem services is vital. ExxonMobil hosted the Approaches to Ecosystem Services Valuation and Indicator Selection: Pilot Gulf of Mexico workshop in 2012 at the ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company. The workshop resulted in thoughtful and important suggestions. Actions which enhance the benefit of the resources, rather than diminish them, are vital for long term ecological and economical sustainability of the Gulf of Mexico.

Understanding the interconnected nature of the deep ocean and offshore environments and the ecosystem services they provide is the key. Both the public sector and the private sector must have sound, scientific data and information to make quality decisions. However, one of the limitations has been the absence of organized forums where stakeholders can communicate their values and expectations. To start the dialogue with stakeholders, the Harte Research Institute with the help of ExxonMobil, held stakeholder workshops in Houston, Texas and in Tampa, Florida.

Stakeholders were asked to rank ecosystem services using the RESVI approach. They were asked to allocate a hypothetical $1 to the services stakeholders valued the most.

Participants could either assign their $1 to one service or divide it among as many services as desired. The information from the workshops was valuable. Food received the highest valuation, followed by raw materials, recreation, science and education and transportation.

Although more study is needed, these workshops provided a good first step in assessing the RESVI approach for marine environments. The results can provide useful information for future discussions of scientific and socio-economic indicators related to ecosystem services of the Gulf of Mexico and their relationship with the many stakeholders.

26 24

ENVIRONMENTAL COOPERATIVE SCIENCE CENTER HRI has been an active Partner with The Environmental Cooperative Science Center (ECSC) for many years. The ECSC was established in 2001 as part of NOAA’s Educational Partnership Program to address ecological and coastal management issues at specific National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERR) and National Marine Sanctuaries. HRI’s close proximity to Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve helps further ECSC’s commitment to the protection of this valuable resource.

ECSC has a vision “to become a center of excellence in training and graduating scientists and managers, particularly from under-represented groups to meet the future workforce of NOAA and other science-mission driven agencies in the 21st century.” The focus is on the economic and social systems of coastal communities and their relationships with the natural systems. Using an interdisciplinary approach, similar to the one used by HRI, the ECSC incorporates socio-economics, law and policy, and the geospatial, biological, chemical and physical sciences helps to achieve their goals of: •

increasing the number of scientists, particularly from under-represented minority groups in the environmental, coastal and oceanic sciences,

•

enhancing the scientific understanding of human interactions with the coastal environment in support of NOAA’s place-based management,

•

improving the scientific basis for coastal resource management by developing tools

and research products to characterize, evaluate, and forecast coastal and marine ecosystem responses to natural and human induced stressors, and •

Facilitating community education and outreach relating to the function and significance of coastal ecosystems.

HRI leads the ECSC Socio-Economic focus area. In addition, four of the six endowed chairs at Harte Research Institute are collaborators with the ECSC and are directly involved in coordinating ECSC student training and research.

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution, its quality educational structure, and diverse student population support ECSC in its efforts to meet NOAA’s future workforce demands for the 21st century.

25

NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Advisory Group conducted “listening sessions” with each of the five Gulf states. These sessions provided ideas and strategies for NAS’s new $500 million, 30-year research program focused on human health, environmental protection and oil system safety in the Gulf region. NAS received the award of these funds from actions relating to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill to help determine its research focus. NAS held their Texas meeting in November 2013.

Dr. Larry McKinney and Dr. Wes Tunnell played key roles to in assuring the success of the meeting. In attendance were 23 Texas institutions and NGO’s. This diverse group provided perspectives and input to the NAS Advisory Group.

The goals of the NAS strategic plan closely parallel the HRI mission and vision and will provide an important foundation for developing science driven solutions to Gulf problems.

STUDENT SUPPORT The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies (HRI) was founded with a generous endowment from Ed Harte in 2000. One of his goals was the support and development of students. HRI has sought to establish additional support to fund the growing needs of our students and research programs.

TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE In May 2002, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and the Coastal Conservation Association-Texas (CCA) partnered to support a summer internship program. The program was designed to give TAMUCC students hands-on experience in the field working alongside state agency personnel. When the students are not in the field working with gill nets or bag seines, they are back at the office repairing gear and completing data entry. The program started with one student and has grown to funding six student interns for a total of $38,000 in 2014. The Mr. Big Fish and Mrs. Big Fish Tournaments helped make this growth possible.

These two organizations have joined CCA in sponsoring the summer internships to expand the program. Since 2002, the internship program has provided students over $239,000 in funding.

2014 CCA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Sarah Kimbrough – Aransas Bay Ecosystem Meghan Martinez – Corpus Christi Bay Ecosystem, Nicole Thomas – Upper Laguna Madre Ecosystem Maria Cooksey – Lower Laguna Madre Ecosystem 2014 MR. AND MRS. BIG FISH SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Greg Purtle – Upper Laguna Madre Ecosystem Heidi Ballew – Upper Laguna Madre Ecosystem

CRUTCHFIELD FELLOWSHIP ENDOWMENT In May 2012, the Crutchfield Fellowships were established by John H. Crutchfield in honor of his late father, John W. Crutchfield. The purpose of the endowment was to fund educational expenses for Harte Research Institute masters and doctoral students. These expenses include, but are not limited to, tuition, books, travel to meetings and workshops, and necessary research supplies or equipment. The first funding to Harte Research Institute from the Crutchfield Fellowships Endowment occurred in September 2013, in the amount of $54,000.

With those funds, we were able to fund tuition costs for 11 masters and doctoral students.

27

GRADUATES REACHING MILESTONES The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi congratulates the following students for reaching educational milestones during fall 2013 and spring/summer 2014: DOCTORATE Judd Curtis- PhD in Marine Biology Bhanu Paudel - PhD in Coastal and Marine System Science Michael Reuscher - PhD in Marine Biology Eleonor Barraza Taylor - PhD in Coastal and Marine System Science MASTER’S DEGREE Dana Cubanski - MS in Environmental Science Mariana Gonzalez Devlin - MS in Environmental Science Amanda Van Diggelen - MS in Marine Biology Lucy Flores - MS in Environmental Science David Franklin - MS in Environmental Science Philip Jose - MS in Marine Biology Maria Pillado - MS in Marine Biology Sara Marie Smith - MS in Environmental Science Lee Schroer - MS in Marine Biology BACHELOR’S DEGREE Matthew Anderson - BS in Geology Colton Crow - BS in Computer Science Marissa Dotson - BS in Geology Chas Downey - BS in Biology Abby Johnson - BS in Biology Katelin Stroman - BS in Biology

ROHAL STUDIES IN SOUTH KOREA FOCUS ON CRUSTACEAN RESEARCH

Melissa Rohal, a PhD student in Dr. Paul Montagna’s Ecosystems & Modeling lab, attended the East Asian and Pacific Summer Institute in South Korea this summer where she studied at Hanyang University’s Biodiversity lab with Dr. Wonchoel Lee, a noted expert in Harpacticoid Copepod Taxonomy. Rohal learned the taxonomic skills needed to identify harpacticoid copepods, a group of small crustaceans found in the oceans as well as the majority of freshwater habitats.

She also collected copepods from the Rincon Bayou northwest of Corpus Christi, Texas, as part of a study to determine freshwater pumping strategies. From the samples that she supplied, a new genus was discovered.

30

TEXAS SEA GRANT AWARDS Texas Sea Grant awards four HRI students one year grants-in-aid to provide support to their areas of graduate research.

The Texas Sea Grant College Program’s Grants-In-Aid of Graduate Research Program aims to promote scientific excellence and achievement by providing financial assistance to graduate students currently enrolled in Master’s or Ph.D. programs at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas A&M University at Galveston or Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, whose marine or coastalrelated research in any field of study is relevant to Texas.

CHRIS HOLLENBECK Chris Hollenbeck, an HRI doctoral student in the Marine Biology program who works in the Marine Genomics laboratory, was awarded $2,000 to study genomic DNA profiles of red drum brood fish that are used by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to supplement wild red drum populations. The oneyear award is a supplement to his doctoral research in the use of genomics and next-generation DNA sequencing to build a highly saturated, red drum genetic map and to identify genetic differences among red drum populations across U.S. waters in the northern Gulf of Mexico and western Atlantic Ocean.

CHIEN-YI HSIANG Chien-Yi Hsiang, an HRI doctoral student in the Coastal and Marine System Science program who works in the Ecosystems and Modeling lab, was awarded $1,000 to enhance her current doctoral research titled: “The Effects of Reducing Freshwater Inflow on Ecosystem Functions in Texas Estuaries.” While her past work has focused on the effect of altered inflow on abundance and diversity, little is known about how the ecosystem works. Specifically, Hsiang will explore how changes in salinity interact with changes in diversity, system metabolism, and nutrient flux. Answers to these questions will help to understand how to balance the freshwater needs for environment flow with the needs for human populations.

MATTHEW STREICH Matthew Streich, an HRI doctoral student in the Marine Biology program who works in the Fisheries and Ocean Health laboratory, was awarded $2,000 to assist in his research of red snapper ecology in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico.

His research will compare artificial and natural habitats in order to understand the role that artificial reefs and natural banks play in maintaining the red snapper population. The results of this study will provide managers with new information regarding the impacts and function of nearshore artificial reefs on the reef species that inhabit them.

MELINDA MARTINEZ Melinda Martinez, an HRI master’s student in the Environmental Science program who works in the Geospatial Science lab, was awarded $1,000 to complement her current research work on the short term wetland accretion rates on Mustang Island. The purpose of this project is to assess the amount of sediment accretion in low and high marshes and tidal flats over a short‐term period (seasonally and annually) and compare it with long‐term accretion rates determined in an earlier study conducted by former HRI master student Boris Radosavljevic.

An assessment of short-term and long‐term accretion rates is critical to understanding the processes affecting surface elevation, and wetland loss and transition as sea level rises.

31

“Without the tireless commitment of our ‘Harte’s Heroes’ and other dedicated people and organizations like them, the smallest and rarest of sea turtles would have disappeared from our oceans by now,” said Dr. Larry McKinney, HRI Executive Director. “Unfortunately, just as we are seeing promising signs of its recovery, the Kemp’s ridley is once again threatened, not only by disasters natural and man-made, but by federal funding cuts for conservation programs. In the face of these challenges, we must redouble our efforts to save the only endangered marine species that breeds exclusively in the Gulf’s waters.”

HARTE’S HEROES HARTE’S HEROES 2014 Five individuals and one organization whose efforts have been critical to furthering the successful recovery of the critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle are the recipients of the 2014 “Harte’s Heroes” Award.

Each Year, the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies (HRI) commemorates “World Oceans Day” by recognizing individuals and groups who have demonstrated their passion for protecting and preserving the vast natural resources of the world’s ninth-largest body of water. The 2014 Harte’s Heroes are: DR. PATRICK BURCHFIELD One of the world’s leading authorities on the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle. For more than 30 years, he has been the driving force behind the Rancho Nuevo Sea Turtle Project, the only known place in the world where large groups of the Kemp’s ridley gather.

DR. PAMELA PLOTKIN Director of Texas Sea Grant, a leader in funding research about the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle.

She is currently leading efforts to call attention to the declining number of Kemp’s ridley nests at the same time that federal funding for continued conservation efforts is being reduced.

LES HODGSON Co-owner of Marco Sales, a shrimp wholesaler in Brownsville, Texas, began helping restore populations of the endangered sea turtle at a time when shrimpers were considered to be one reason for its decline. Hodgson serves on the board of the Texas Shrimp Association and is a member of the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Recovery Team.

SEA TURTLE, INC. Rescues, rehabilitates and returns injured sea turtles to their natural environment. The Organization currently administers and funds the South Texas Nest Conservation Program and helps fund three bi-national projects including a beach patrol project with Mexico that locates and protects the nests and eggs of Kemp’s ridley turtles.

LUIS JAIME PEÑA Began working on nest data management at Rancho Nuevo in 1995, an assignment that, in 1997, led to his appointment as the camp’s field crew coordinator. Peña became Operations Director for the U.S. Contingent of the Kemp’s Ridley Binational Project and, in 2007, was named the Gladys Porter Zoo’s Curator of Conservation Programs.

DR. DONNA SHAVER Chief of the Division of Sea Turtle Science and Recovery at the Padre Island National Seashore, is the Principle Investigator for a Natural Resources Damage Assessment study to determine potential injury to the Kemp’s ridley population from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

At the 2014 Harte’s Heroes awards banquet were, from left, University President Flavius Killebrew; Corpus Christi Mayor Nelda Martinez; Harte’s Heroes: Donna Shaver, Patrick Burchfield, Pamela Plotkin, Luis Jaime Pena, Carol DeMos (accepting for Sea Turtle Inc.), Les Hodgson; and HRI Director Larry McKinney. PHOTO: TAMUCC

434

OUR SUPPORT FRIENDS OF HRI Catherine and Geary Atherton Mr. and Mrs. Bill Clark Bill Cohen John Crutchfield Sylvia Earle Katy and Ted Flato Ruth and Dan Flournoy Carol and Robert Fondren Caroline Forgason Terence Greene (Capital Counsel, LLC) Augusta Gross and Leslie Samuels Brian Hanson Pam and Will Harte Barbara and Hayden Head Henrietta Hildebrand Christopher Hill Tim and Karen Hixon

Joe Hornblower A. Ryland Howard James and Tammy King (King Land & Water, LLC) Mr. and Mrs. Cappy Lawton Mr. and Mrs. Steve Lewis Paula Maywald Marshall B. Miller and Claudia Huntington Jim and Vicki Montague Michael J. Nault (Applied Biostratigraphix) Elizabeth and Roberts Owens Britt and Thomas Peterson Phillip Plant Dr. Iain Prince (Shell Oil Company) Mr. and Mrs. Charles Richards, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Richards Blythe Robertson and Mary Perkins

Chula and Ramon Sanchez Kem and John Sawyer William Scanlan, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William Scanlan James D. and Karen W. Selim Dr. Bruce Sidner (South River Investments, Inc.) Elizabeth A. Starret (Starret Living Trust) Mr. and Mrs. Norman Stewart Claudia and Alan Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Sam L. Susser Mr. and Mrs. George Vaughan Mary and Roger Wallace Molly Ward (AXA Foundation) Art Waterman (Paleo-Data, Inc.) Alison Whelan Julia Harte Widdowson and Nigel Widdowson Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Wiel

PARTNERS OF HRI American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers BP Building Conservation Trust Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program Coastal Bend Shell Club Coastal Conservation Association Copelands, Inc. Dauphin Island Sea Lab Earl C. Sams Foundation ExxonMobil Furgason Fellowship Fondren Foundation George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation Gerrish H. Milliken Foundation Gulf of Mexico Alliance Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System Gulf of Mexico Foundation, Inc. Gulf of Mexico Program Gulf of Mexico University Research Collaborative Hach Hydromet

Harte Charitable Foundation Harte Research Support Foundation Houston Endowment Jacobs Technology John Newman Family Charitable Fund La Palmera Mall Louisiana State University McCombs Foundation Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Mote Marine Laboratory Mote Scientific Foundation, Inc. Mr. Big Trout Mrs. Big Trout Norwegian Consulate General of Houston Ocean Conservancy Oceaneering Port of Corpus Christi Saltwater Fisheries Enhancement Association Sea-Bird Coastal Sharkathon

Shell Oil Company Shield-Ayres Foundation Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Texas A&M University Research Foundation Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Texas Sea Grant The Nature Conservancy Texas State Aquarium The Cullen Foundation The John M. O’Quinn Foundation The Trull Foundation Tresorelle Foundation University of South Florida University of Southern Mississippi University of Texas Marine Science Institute Walton Family Foundation Water Standard WaterStreet Seafood Restaurants Wimberley Chapel in the Hills

Sara Kerner Katherine Lavelle Larry McKinney Paul Montagna Fabio Moretzsohn Elani Morgan Kevin Nelson Terry Palmer Bhanu Paudel CeCe Pillado

Michael Reuscher Adelaide Rhodes Melissa Rohal Gail Sutton Wes Tunnell Travis Washburn John Wood Dave Yoskowitz

EMPLOYEES OF HRI Leslie Adams Noe Barrera Brittany Blomberg David Franklin Kathryn Gerard Robert Gutierrez Meredyth Herdener Chien-Yi Hsiang Larry Hyde Rick Kalke

36

SCIENCE BY THE NUMBERS

HOW WE PUT IT TO WORK

Fulfilling HRI’s vision of an ecologically and economically sustainable Gulf of Mexico connects the Institute to a wide range of resources.

Major corporate partners rely on HRI for high quality research and information. Agencies and NGOs reach out for sound science and professional support. Students seek out HRI for its unique academic rigor and related educational experience.

HOW WE INVEST

93

Engagement

RESEARCH PROJECTS

Research

Admin

OUR REVENUE SOURCES

$11.1M OPERATING BUDGET(FY 2014)

67

Grants/ Contracts

Private

State

GROWTH IN OPERATING BUDGET $ in millions 12M 9M 6M 3M 0M

38

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

BOOKS OFF THE PRESS Texas A&M University Press recently released three new books written by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi faculty, two in its HRI Studies Series and another in the Gulf Coast Book Series.

The book attracting the most attention, Fire in the Sea (2014) by Dr. David McKee, was released by the Gulf Coast Book Series the last week in February, and already has reviews in the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, Popular Science, and Outdoor Magazine. In the book, McKee honors the hither-to-fore unknown artwork of biologist Henry (Hank) Compton, revealing his amazing talent and color paintings of Gulf of Mexico deep-sea fishes and invertebrates who display bioluminescence. McKee had formerly published another book, Fishes of the Laguna Madre in the Gulf Coast Books Series, using Compton’s line drawings of fishes from that unique body of water on the South Texas coast.

The first book released in the HRI Studies Series, Marine Plants of the Texas Coast (2013) by Biology Professor Roy Lehman, includes shore plants, seagrasses, mangroves, and algae, and it is full of color images of all species, as well as taxonomic keys to all species. Dr. Lehman’s book will likely become a standard in marine biology and ecology classes, as well as a research tool for scientists and managers.

The second HRI Studies Series release is Beaches of the Gulf Coast (2014) by Dr. Richard Davis, HRI Visiting Research Scientist and Retired Distinguished Professor from the University of South Florida. Davis’ book focuses primarily on barrier island and mainland beaches of the northern Gulf

of Mexico with extensive color images from the ground and the air. It also includes a final chapter on selected beaches of Mexico and Cuba.

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is the sponsor of both the HRI Studies Series and Gulf Coast Book Series which are published by Texas A&M University Press. Gulf Coast Book Series was started in 2001, and HRI Studies Series was started in 2007. Dr. Wes Tunnell, HRI Associate Director and Endowed Chair of Biodiversity and Conservation Science, is General Editor of both series, and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Provost Chris Markwood has University oversight for the two book series.

Gulf Coast Books Series now has 25 titles that focus attention on the region around the Gulf of Mexico, with special emphasis on the Texas Gulf Coast. Manuscripts concerning topics relevant to the Gulf and the coastal zone for roughly 50 miles inland, including art, history, government, economics, archaeology, maritime studies, natural history, natural resources, or science, are invited for consideration.

The HRI Book Series currently has 10 titles focusing on the entire Gulf of Mexico. Manuscripts concerning science, policy, and management of large portions or the entire Gulf are invited for consideration. HRI sponsored research, faculty, and associates have priority within this series. Also included within the HRI Studies Series is a special series entitled Gulf of Mexico Origin, Waters, and Biota, currently with four volumes published (Biota, Economics, Geology, and Ecosystem-Based Management) and as many as five more in the works.

40

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi 6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5869 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 825-2000 www.harteresearchinstitute.org